KR20210057742A - Moisture detection and indicator systems to maintain loop membrane integrity and how to use them - Google Patents

Abstract

A system, method, and apparatus for detecting moisture leaks in a loop and providing visual alerts of such leaks, which do not require perforating or damaging the roof membrane, comprising: receiving non-electronic signals from wicking sensors, wicking portions, and wicking portions. A dual part moisture detection and indicator system comprising a non-electronic trigger portion below the membrane capable of receiving a non-electronic signal from the trigger portion and a non-electronic indicator portion above the membrane capable of generating a notification of a leak thereafter. .

Description

Moisture detection and indicator systems to maintain loop membrane integrity and how to use them

The present invention relates to the field of devices, systems and methods for detecting and indicating moisture in buildings. More specifically, the present invention relates to the field of moisture detection and moisture indication materials for use in loops, and to a loop material leak detection system comprising such a material that does not require perforation through the loop membrane, but the wall or It can also be placed on a wall on a building or house.

The main function of the roof system is to keep the interior of the building dry. The roof insulation under the roof membrane keeps the building cool in summer and warm in winter. When the insulation is wet, its functionality is reduced or lost. In these cases, heating and cooling costs can skyrocket, and unless it is a major disaster, the consequences of water in the roof system can be more serious. Additional consequences may include insulation decay, corrosion of steel decks and insulation fasteners, rotten wood decks, toxic mold, nuisance leaks, interior wall and ceiling damage, inventory damage, and premature roof failure.

Leakage of existing roofs is particularly problematic if the roof has a non-conductive element, such as a vapor barrier or secondary roofing membrane, below the roofing envelope next to the deck. In this case, water leaking into the roofing envelope can saturate the insulation and other elements within the envelope without actually leaking into the building, since the lowest membrane acts as a barrier to water. Over time, water flows into the building through the roofing envelope through penetrations such as vent stacks, curbs for mechanical equipment, conduits, etc. and becomes visible from below. At this time, cutting the core of the roofing envelope to determine the degree of water damage; Removal of large parts of the loop; Performing infrared or other tests to indicate the current state of the roofing envelope; A wide range of corrective actions can be taken, such as.

Also, when the roofing envelope is saturated with water, some of the planned energy efficiency from the roofing envelope is lost. Building structures can also experience the corrosive effect of water, thus impairing its penetration. This process, unknown to anyone, is taking place in thousands of loops across North America, and in fact taking place in built environments anywhere in the world.

All of the above can have significant cost consequences for the building owner and, in some cases, for the occupants of the building. In addition, any of the above conditions can cause destructive roof replacement to building owners in addition to roof maintenance and repair costs. For commercial buildings, wet insulation in flat commercial building roofs is a costly problem worldwide, creating billions of dollars in repair price tags for owners.

Today's high-performance loop systems are becoming more expensive and more complex, and generally require a trained loop consultant to perform weekly visual inspections. Statistically, it is known that about 80% of moisture leaks into buildings occur in penetration/roof bumps, curbs, walls, railings, drains and drains. These leaks are mostly hidden, accumulate in membranes and insulation and spread slowly, often destroying the roof system before moisture enters the building. Other leaks can occur if the water pond on the loop and the exposed loop membrane seam fail, causing water to enter.

During visual loop inspection, it is recognized as valuable if it is possible to detect such 80% leaks into the loop system. However, roof maintenance personnel, consultants, and inspectors generally cannot see moisture under the roof surface only with their own eyes. Thus, visual loop inspection is generally of limited value and often misses hidden loop leak problems.

To detect moisture below the surface, sophisticated tools for analysis are typically required, which requires additional work, additional training, and additional costs for the services performed. These tools include non-destructive testing using nuclear instruments, capacitive/RF instruments, and infrared scanners. Destructive testing includes core cutting and moisture detection probes, but in general the core and probe are not used until moisture is suspected or found as a non-destructive tool.

In the loop, the use of an infrared scanner is limited to a narrow “window of opportunity” to perform inspections after sunset or at dawn; This means a weekly loop inspection and a follow-up visit to verify the data during the moisture probe. In the loop, IR scanners produce less useful or misleading results during the day after sunrise.

In the case of nuclear equipment, it can be used during the day, but it is rarely used in practice as it is dangerous due to radiation. Special radioactive badges, additional safety precautions and training, and use permits are required.

Electrical capacitance/RF meters can be useful, but they require training and require a dry roof surface to be used, which is difficult or impossible in winter or wet days, like infrared.

Due to the additional costs involved, loop experts generally do not use these additional tools during routine loop inspections, unless they pay additional fees for performing these additional tasks. Thus, it would be advantageous and valuable to have an improved approach to detecting such hidden leaks during visual inspection without having the limitations (and cost) of commonly used equipment. It was recognized that it would be very useful if a person walking on the roof could see the roof surface (and some of the walls) and know if there was a moisture leak (without having to rely on the use of electronic equipment/sensors). It would also be useful if any sensor that visually indicates a leak into the loop system to provide a leak condition indication to the user or loop inspector does not require physically penetrating the loop membrane into the sensor.

It would also be useful if the non-penetrating sensor does not require any electronic devices, batteries, solar cells or wires to communicate this leak condition indication to the user or loop inspector.

It is an object of the present invention to eliminate or mitigate the shortcomings of these known moisture detection devices, systems and methods.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a dual part moisture detection and indicator device and system for use in detecting and indicating moisture leakage, which overcomes the functional and structural deficiencies of known detection means.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus, method and system in which the apparatus can be arranged for detecting and locating leaks in a roofing membrane in situ.

It is an object of the present invention to provide the most efficient method of detecting leakage of membrane loop material or waterproofing at different heights of a roof system using a loop sensor that does not require any kind of perforation or breakage of the loop membrane, and loop leakage status Can pass or pass under the roof membrane through the membrane (without perforation or breakage), and the loop operator simply installs the device and uses a sensor system that is easy to use at no cost.

The present invention provides a dual part moisture detection and indicator and system for use in detecting and indicating moisture leaks that do not need to puncture or damage a roof membrane. The present invention is contemplated to have a particularly useful application as a moisture detection and alarm system for a loop, and thus is discussed and illustrated herein in the context of a loop; However, it should be understood that it is suitable to be easily used as a moisture detection and alarm system for use in different scenarios, including some buildings, building structures or parts of buildings. Various possible uses will become apparent through this disclosure.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed herein for detecting moisture leaks in a loop and providing visual alerts regarding such leaks, including a dual part moisture detection and indicator system. The moisture detection and indicator system can receive the non-electronic signal from the wicking sensor, the wicking portion, the non-electronic trigger portion and the trigger portion beneath the membrane capable of receiving non-electronic signals from the wicking portion, and then generate a notification of a leak. Includes a non-electronic indicator section on the membrane.

The means by which the non-electronic indicator portion above the membrane can i) receive a non-electronic signal from the trigger portion beneath the membrane and ii) generate a notification of a leak thereafter can be accomplished in a variety of ways as described and claimed herein. have. A key feature of the present invention is that the non-electronic indicator portion above the membrane non-electrically communicates with the trigger portion below the membrane, and in turn the indicator portion then generates a non-electronic signal/moisture alarm. In one aspect, the generation of non-electronic signals and notifications is achieved by the use of magnetic field coupling. In some aspects of the invention, actual magnets are used for this coupling, or in alternative magnetic field sensing/indicating sheets, magnetic field sensing magnetic fluids, etc. are used at the same end. As an alternative to the use of magnetic field coupling between the base trigger tray and the end channel magnet pushing and pulling, “mechanical” means include, but are not limited to, elastic bands, wires, springs, and extension materials, and “triggers” in the trigger portion and It can be used to generate an alarm in the indicator part.

At least one wicking sensor is typically installed around the area where leak detection is required and, through non-magnetic magnetic field coupling, to the indicator part on the roof membrane, in response to this magnetic field coupling, provides a visual change that provides an alarm for moisture detection. It functions to wick moisture through the wicking portion from the leak to the trigger portion, conveying the leaking condition through the rigid, non-permeable loop membrane that it experiences. As will be explained in even more detail in the preferred embodiments section below, the magnetic field coupling between the lower (below the membrane) trigger portion and the upper (above the membrane) indicator portion can be achieved in a variety of ways, all completely within the scope of the present invention. Included. One way is to cause the alarm signal to be activated as a result of the combination of a first magnetic field in the trigger portion and a second magnetic field in the indicator portion, for example, through movement of a magnet in the indicator portion, such a combination in the wicking portion. Activated by a material change, the material change is caused directly or indirectly by moisture in the wicking portion from the wicking sensor.

Alarms are considered to serve as observations by loop inspection experts during loop inspection and to provide information to such experts on potential moisture leak problems; Alternatively, the alarm can serve to alert home or building owners of potential moisture leak problems in the roof, so a roof repair/service specialist can request a closer inspection.

More specifically, the present invention provides moisture for use in detecting moisture leakage anywhere on the roof, around the roof top unit (RTU) and other structures of the roof, or in the field region of the loop away from such RTU units and structures. Provides detection and indicator, which includes: a) an exposed wicking sensor that is capable of permeating to moisture and, in use, generally, installed around an area where leak detection is required and functions to wick moisture from the leak to the wicking portion; b) a wicking portion that is impermeable to moisture and is coupled to the wicking sensor longitudinally or otherwise to enable moisture wicking and moisture movement along the wicking portion away from the wicking sensor; c) a trigger portion comprising a first magnetic field, in use, below the loop membrane and engageable with the wicking portion; d) an indicator portion comprising a second magnetic field, in use, above the loop membrane and removably aligned just above the trigger portion; Here, moisture in the wicking portion from the wicking sensor directly or indirectly activates a material change in the wicking portion, and the material change induces the trigger portion into a combination of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field, and the combination Then activates the moisture alarm within the indicator part.

In one aspect, the non-electronic trigger portion beneath the membrane, capable of receiving a non-electronic signal from the wicking portion by a material change of the wicking portion, comprises: i) supplying and disposing the wicking portion within at least a portion of the trigger portion housing. At least one through channel for and an associated housing aperture; ii) means for generating a first magnetic field; iii) when in use, comprises a hermetically sealed trigger portion housing comprising means for non-electrically aligning the trigger portion with the indicator portion.

The present invention provides an apparatus for use in detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane, comprising: i) a wicking sensor ii) a wicking portion longitudinally or otherwise coupled to the wicking sensor; iii) a non-electric trigger housing for placement under a building membrane in use, the non-electric trigger housing adapted to receive a signal from the wicking portion in response to moisture from the wicking sensor; And iv) in use, a non-electronic indicator housing for placement over the building membrane and in alignment with the trigger housing, suitable for receiving a non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing and thereafter generating a notification of a leak. Includes a non-electronic indicator housing.

The present invention provides a method for detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane comprising:

a) Detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;

b) Wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to the wicking portion

c) Resulting in a material change in at least one portion of the wicking portion as a result of the moisture, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion;

d) Generating a detectable signal within the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor;

Wherein the trigger portion is suitable to be placed under the building membrane and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, and the indicator portion is suitable to be placed over the building membrane.

The present invention further provides a method for detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane comprising:

a) Detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;

b) Wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to one or more wicking portions;

c) As a result of the moisture, causing a material change in one wicking portion in the trigger end piece, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion in the trigger end piece;

d) Generating a detectable signal within the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor;

Wherein the trigger portion in the trigger end piece is suitable to be disposed under the building membrane, and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, and the indicator portion is suitable to be disposed above the building membrane.

In one aspect, the non-electronic indicator portion above the membrane, capable of receiving a non-electronic signal from the trigger portion and generating a notification of a leak, comprises: i) means for generating a second magnetic field; ii) an upper facing surface visible to the user; iii) means for generating an alarm signal as a result of the combination of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field in the trigger portion; And iv) a sealed indicator portion housing comprising means for non-electrically aligning the indicator portion with the trigger portion.

According to another aspect of the invention, disclosed herein is a method for detecting moisture using such moisture detection and indicators and systems as described herein. More specifically, the present invention provides a method for detecting moisture leakage in a roofing envelope, wherein the roofing envelope comprises a roofing membrane, possibly an insulating coverboard, an insulation, a vapor barrier and a deck, which Without moving information, it includes installing a moisture detection and indicator pair below and above the roofing membrane, as described and claimed herein. More specifically, the trigger portion is installed under the roof membrane, and the indicator portion is installed above the roof membrane. Installation does not require loop membrane perforation, or routing leak status information through the roof top unit (RTU) or other protruding structures on the roof.

The indicator includes a lower membrane base sensor/trigger portion and an upper membrane indicator portion. The main aspect of the invention is the pairing of the trigger portion and the indicator portion and magnetic field (non-electronic) communication therebetween in response to moisture detection. The lower membrane trigger portion includes: i) a wicking sensor permeable to moisture in the vicinity of the lower membrane base portion when in use; ii) a non-permeable, wicking portion coupled to the wicking sensor in the longitudinal direction, and allowing moisture wicking and moisture movement along the wicking portion away from the wicking sensor; And iii) means for generating a first magnetic field. The loop membrane indicator portion comprises: i) means for generating a second magnetic field capable of being coupled with a first magnetic field from the trigger portion; And ii) means for generating an alarm signal as a result of the combination of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field in the trigger portion.

In one aspect, the employee will periodically see an indicator section looking for an alarm that moisture has wicked from the wicking sensor below the roofing membrane to the lower roof membrane base trigger section, and this condition becomes available in the indicator section above the roof membrane. As further described herein, an alert may not require an employee to attend the loop site, but may be communicated via a measurement system within the indicator portion, which may be a mobile app, web platform or repository (e.g., Cloud-based monitoring center) passes the alarm data through an internet gateway for viewing.

According to another aspect of the invention, a system for detecting moisture using such a double part moisture detection and indicator is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present invention provides a system for detecting and locating leaks in a roofing envelope, wherein the roofing envelope comprises a roofing membrane, the system comprising a lower membrane trigger portion (lower base) and an upper membrane indicator portion Includes (top) in pairs. This fairing does not involve breakage or damage to the roofing membrane.

In one aspect, the lower membrane trigger portion comprises i) at least one piece that is completely permeable to moisture in the vicinity of the wicking sensor when used under a roofing membrane, with an optionally shielded wicking section and a trigger section. Membrane moisture detection wicking sensor; ii) a wicking portion coupled to the wicking sensor in the longitudinal direction or otherwise, and consisting of the wicking portion, which enables moisture wicking and moisture movement along the wicking portion away from the wicking sensor, wherein at least the wicking portion One part is actuated directly or indirectly to a material change in response to moisture, after which the material change can induce the trigger part to couple it (the first magnetic field) to the second magnetic field of the indicator part, and then the The combination activates a moisture alarm within the indicator section. The upper loop membrane indicator portion comprises: i) means for generating a second magnetic field capable of being coupled with the first magnetic field from the trigger portion in response to a change in material in the wicking portion; And ii) means for generating an alarm signal as a result of the combination of the first magnetic field and the second magnetic field in the trigger portion. Once the system is installed, in the area of the roof field near curbs, roof jacks, vents and other roof top units or away from these RTUs, additional tools or tools required to reveal hidden moisture leaks from roof insulation, roof membrane and roof membrane delamination. No instrument is required. In addition, the present invention can indicate leaks at any time during the day or at night during wet or dry weather. Once the system is installed, it is possible to detect and mark initial moisture leaks anywhere in the roof area, rather than near the loop protrusions, with regular visual inspection before hidden moisture damage becomes a bigger problem.

In another aspect, the present invention includes a network, mobile application, web platform, system and program product, which includes a roof installer for detecting leaks by means that do not need to puncture or damage a building membrane, including: Includes an integrated forum for users including, but not limited to, inspectors, building owners, and building maintenance personnel.

a) Detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;

b) Wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to the wicking portion

c) Resulting in a material change in at least one portion of the wicking portion as a result of the moisture, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion;

d) Generating a detectable signal within the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor;

Wherein the trigger portion is suitable to be placed under the building membrane and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, the indicator portion is suitable to be placed on the building membrane, and the signal allows the user to see and access the signal. So that it is delivered to the network, mobile applications, web platforms, systems and program products.

The devices, methods and systems of the present invention are reliable to be installed universally on most types of roof membranes anywhere on the roof membrane, including near the roof drain valley, and near the roof protrusions, curbs, walls, drains and drains. And it will be an inexpensive application example.

The embodiment of the present application finally corrects the fundamental problem of the loop sensor penetrating the loop membrane.

1 is a top plan view of FIG. 5C, showing an embodiment of a moisture wicking portion and a trigger end piece, in an exploded version;
1A is a bottom plan view of FIG. 5C, showing an embodiment of a moisture wicking portion and a trigger end piece, in an exploded version;
2 is a plan view of the underside of the lid of the housing of the trigger portion;
Fig. 3 is a top plan view of the inner layout of the housing of the indicator portion, open and exposed (shown in Fig. 4, without cover or cover);
Fig. 3a is a side cross-sectional view showing the interior layout of the housing of the indicator portion (which is the area indicated in Fig. 3);
Fig. 4 is a plan view of the underside of the cover of the housing of the indicator portion, shown in Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 is a top plan view of the inner layout of the housing of the trigger portion (trigger base housing), open and exposed (without the cover or cover shown in Fig. 2);
5B is a cross-sectional side view showing one embodiment of a trigger assembly in a trigger base housing, including a wicking sensor (which is the area indicated in FIG. 5D);
Fig. 5c is an isometric view of a moisture wicking portion that is an exploded version of the specific area shown in Fig. 5;
5D is a bottom plan view of the trigger base housing;
Fig. 5f is an enlarged side view of the moisture wicking portion, an exploded version of the specific area indicated in Fig. 5b;
5G is an enlarged side view of the moisture wicking portion and the clamping portion, an exploded version of the specific area indicated in FIG. 5B;
6 is an isometric view of the overall field architecture of the moisture detection and indicator of the present invention, in particular showing a trigger housing having a top indicator housing, a roof membrane, a wicking sensor and a visible portion of both the wicking portion;
Fig. 6A is an enlarged isometric view of an indicator portion, which is an exploded version of the specific area shown in Fig. 6;
7 is an isometric view including a top indicator housing (2 channel version) with visible portions of both a wicking sensor and trigger housing (2 channel version);
Fig. 7A is a top plan view of the inner layout of the housing (two channel version) of the trigger part, open and exposed (with or without the cover shown in Fig. 7B);
7B is a plan view of the underside of the lid of the housing (two channel version) of the trigger portion;
Fig. 7c is a top plan view of the inner layout of the housing (two channel version) of the indicator part, open and exposed (with or without the cover shown in Fig. 7d);
Fig. 7d is a plan view of the underside of the lid of the housing (two channel version) of the indicator part, shown in Fig. 7c;
Fig. 8 is a line drawing, top plan view of the trigger housing in which the trigger end piece is not engaged therein; And
Fig. 9 is a line drawing, top plan view of a trigger housing in which a trigger end piece is engaged therein.
The drawings show an embodiment of the invention for purposes of illustration only. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate from the following description that alternative embodiments of structures and methods shown herein may be used without departing from the principles of the invention described herein.

A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the invention is provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that illustrate the principles of the invention. Although the present invention has been described in connection with these embodiments, the present invention is not limited to any of the embodiments. The scope of the invention is limited only by the claims, and the invention includes numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalents. A number of specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. These details are provided for illustrative purposes, and the invention may be practiced in accordance with the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the sake of clarity, technical materials known in the technical field related to the present invention have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

The present invention is sensitive to many variations, including scaling to capacity, as long as design and process parameters are maintained. Accordingly, the drawings and the following description of the preferred embodiments should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not limiting.

I. Terminology

The term "device" means any machine, manufacture and/or composition of matter, unless expressly stated otherwise in accordance with the present invention. More specifically, a device generally refers to a pair of (i) a wicking sensor and trigger base unit below the roof membrane and (ii) a top indicator portion above the roof membrane of the present invention.

The terms “invention” and the like mean “one or more inventions disclosed in this application” unless expressly stated otherwise.

The terms “one aspect”, “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the above embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments” , "Specific embodiments", "one embodiment", "other embodiment", etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise, "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the disclosed invention(s). Means".

The terms "modification" or "variation" of the present invention mean an embodiment of the present invention, unless expressly stated otherwise.

In describing an embodiment, reference to “another embodiment” or “another aspect” means that the referenced embodiment is another embodiment (e.g., the referenced embodiment is described before the referenced embodiment), unless explicitly stated otherwise. Example) and does not mean that they are mutually exclusive.

The terms “including”, “comprising” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to” unless expressly stated otherwise.

The terms "a, an" and "above" mean "one or more" unless explicitly stated otherwise.

The term “plurality” means “two or more” unless expressly stated otherwise.

The term "herein" means "in this application, including anything that may be incorporated by reference," unless expressly stated otherwise.

The phrase “at least one” means any combination of one or more of these, unless explicitly stated otherwise, when such a phrase modifies a plurality of things (eg, an enumerated list of things). For example, the phrase "at least one of a widget, a vehicle and a wheel" means (i) a widget, (ii) a vehicle, (iii) a wheel, (iv) a widget and a vehicle, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi ) Vehicles and wheels, or (vii) widgets, vehicles and wheels. The phrase “at least one” does not mean “each one of” a plurality of things when such a phrase modifies a plurality of things.

Numerical terms such as "one", "two", etc., when used as a base number representing a quantity of something (eg, one widget, two widgets) mean the quantity expressed in that numeric term, but in that numeric term It does not imply the minimum quantity indicated. For example, the phrase "one widget" does not mean "at least one widget", so the phrase "one widget" does not contain, for example, two widgets.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the phrase “based on” does not mean “based solely on”. That is, the phrase “based on” describes both “based only on” and “at least based on”. The phrase "at least based on" is equivalent to the phrase "based at least in part on".

The term “representing” and similar terms are not exclusive unless explicitly stated otherwise. For example, the term "representing" does not mean "representing only" unless explicitly stated otherwise. That is, the phrase "data represents a credit card number" describes both "data represents only a credit card number" and "data represents a credit card number and data also represents another".

The term "by" is used herein only to precede a clause or other set of words expressing only the intended result, purpose or result of what has been explicitly recited previously. Thus, when the term “by” is used in a claim, the clause or other word in which the term “by” is modified does not establish certain further limitations of the claim or otherwise limit the meaning or scope of the claim.

The terms “such as”, “example,” and similar terms mean “for example,” and therefore are not limiting of the terms or phrases being described. For example, in the sentence "a computer transmits data (e.g., instructions, data structures) over the Internet", the term "such as" is an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet. It will be explained that "data structure" is an example of "data" that a computer can send over the Internet. But,

Both "direction" and "data structure" are just examples of "data",

Others than “instruction” and “data structure” may be “data”.

The term “each” and similar terms mean “taken individually”. Thus, if more than one thing has "each" characteristics, each of these has its own characteristics, and these characteristics may, but need not, be different from each other. For example, the phrase "each of the two machines has its own function" means that a first such machine has a function and a second such a machine also has a function. The function of the first machine may or may not be the same as the function of the second machine.

The term "in other words" and similar terms mean "that is," thus limiting the term or phrase being described. For example, in the sentence "The computer transmits data (ie, instructions) over the Internet," the term "i.e." explains that the "direction" is "data" that the computer transmits over the Internet.

The term “roof top unit” or RTU is intended to have a broad meaning, for example, various roof protrusions such as curbs, walls, roof jacks, vents, flashers, railings, drains and drains for mechanical equipment and It is intended to contain penetrants. For the sake of clarity, the terms are curbs, curbs for mechanical equipment, HVAC curbs, walls, roof intake and exhaust fan curbs, roof intake and exhaust vent curbs, gooseneck roof jacks, flashers, vents, railings, drains, drains, roof walls. , Flanged intake and exhaust vents, roof railing, roof control joint, roof drain, roof exhaust, roof piping stack flashing, roof gas stack flashing, roof electrical stack flashing, roof jack flashing, roof skylight curb, roof gum or pitch pan Includes flashing, loop retro box.

The term “loop field region” is any loop section that includes a drain valley away from the RTU.

This description of the preferred embodiments should be read in connection with the accompanying drawings which are part of the full written description of the invention. In the description, corresponding reference numbers are used throughout to identify identical or functionally similar elements. Relative terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "top", "bottom", "top" and "bottom", as well as their derivatives (eg, "horizontally", "downward", "upwardly "Etc." should be construed as referring to an orientation as described or illustrated thereafter in the drawings under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and are not intended to require a particular orientation unless specifically stated as such. Terms including “inwardly” versus “outwardly”, “longitudinal” versus “lateral” and the like should be construed with respect to each other or with respect to an axis of extension, or an axis of rotation or center, as appropriate. Terms relating to attachment, bonding, etc., such as “connected” and “interconnected”, are movable, as well as relationships in which structures are directly or indirectly fixed or attached to each other through intermediate structures, unless explicitly stated otherwise. Or both a tight attachment or relationship. The term “operably linked” is such an attachment, bond or connection that allows the associated structure to function as intended by the relationship.

Any given numerical range should include the whole and fraction of the numbers within the range. For example, the range “1 to 10” specifically specifies an integer between 1 and 10 (eg, 1, 2, 3, 4,... 9) and non-integer (eg, 1.1, 1.2,... 1.9). Is to be interpreted as including.

If more than one term or phrase is synonymous (e.g., due to an explicit statement that the term or phrase is synonymous), instances of such term/phrase do not imply that other instances of such term/phrase must have different meanings. Does not. For example, if the description makes the meaning of “including” synonymous with “including but not limited to”, the mere use of the phrase “including but not limited to” means “including but not limited to” the term “comprising” It does not mean to mean anything other than "not limited."

The title (presented at the beginning of the first page of this application) or summary (presented at the end of the present application) is not to be considered as limited in any way to the scope of the disclosed invention(s). The summary is only 37 C.F.R. It is included in this application because a summary of 150 words or less is required according to .sctn.1.72(b). The title of this application and the headings of the sections provided in this application are for convenience only, and should not be considered as limiting the disclosure in any way.

A number of embodiments are described in this application and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The described embodiments are not limiting in any sense and are not intended to be limiting. The presently disclosed invention(s) is widely applicable to a number of embodiments, as will be readily apparent from this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosed invention(s) can be practiced with various modifications and variations, such as structural and logical variations. While certain features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with reference to one or more specific embodiments and/or drawings, such features may be described in one or more specific embodiments or drawings in which they are described, unless expressly stated otherwise. It should be understood that it is not limited to the use of.

Embodiments of the method steps or product elements described in this application do not constitute the invention as claimed herein, or as claimed herein, except as expressly recited within this specification or expressly recited in the claims. It is not essential to the invention described, or is not in line with the invention claimed herein.

II overview

The present invention provides an apparatus for detecting moisture leaks in a loop and providing a visual alert regarding such leaks, and includes a dual part moisture detection and indicator part. The first major aspect of the invention is how these two parts work and how they communicate with each other . The trigger portion, in use, is disposed under the roof membrane and, as described below, is suitable for functional engagement with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor. The indicator portion is suitable to be placed over the loop membrane in use and can receive a non-electronic signal from the trigger portion, and then generate a visual notification of the leak as a direct result of this signal. There is no physical contact between the trigger part and the indicator part. There are no electronic communications or wires, and no electronic components. There is no perforation or breakage of the loop membrane for these two parts to function jointly. The communication between the trigger portion and the indicator portion is based on a variety of non-electronic means including, but not limited to, magnetic field coupling that is affected by at least one material change in the wicking portion in response to moisture. Various methods by which this can be achieved are further described herein.

A second major aspect of the present invention is to notify how a substance affected by moisture in the wicking portion transmits a “signal” to the trigger portion to generate an alarm in the indicator portion. In one way, this is achieved by a trigger portion that couples its magnetic field (first magnetic field) to the magnetic field of the indicator portion (second magnetic field). Various other methods by which this can be achieved are further described herein.

In one preferred aspect, the sequence of such events using the device of the present invention is as follows:

□ Moisture detection by wicking sensor and wicking of moisture to the wicking part

□ Changes in/branch material in the wicking part (at least one part of) from moisture

□ Engagement and movement of magnetic field coupling triggered by material change

□ Signal is generated in the indicator part in response to magnetic field coupling

The apparatus and method of the present invention are unique and have not been previously recognized for use in the context of loop moisture detection. There are many moisture detection systems that operate electronically, for example measuring conductivity using X and Y wires forming a grating, or measuring the current between a sensor on top of a loop membrane and a conductive layer beneath it, but these systems Is more complex, is prone to component failure and/or requires loop membrane penetration to operate.

Changes in/point material in the wicking portion (at least one portion of) from moisture

The device of the present invention is a wicking sensor (in the sensor area, permeable to moisture, can be oriented in place to capture moisture in or around a desired area and wick the captured moisture away from the sensor area), wicking portion (Impermeable for moisture movement and not detected), and a non-electronic trigger portion capable of receiving a non-electronic signal from the wicking portion in response to a material change in the wicking portion. Within the scope of the present invention, material changes are intended to have a broad meaning and include any changes to the wicking portion as a result of moisture detection, which non-electronically facilitates signal transmission to the trigger portion. In a preferred form, the material change is

At least one portion of the wicking portion, proximal or inside of the trigger housing, is separated from the rest of the wicking portion associated with the wicking sensor, so that at least one portion of the wicking portion, proximal or inside of the trigger housing, is In this case, the moisture may participate in signal transmission to other components of the trigger housing where it has been detected.

Most convenient and easily, as will be fully understood throughout this disclosure, such material changes may include, for example, separation, destruction, dissolution of parts, stretching, contracting, swelling, ascending, vertical or horizontal descending or diagonal movement, pulling. , Pushing, or any combination thereof, of some type of physical destruction of the wicking portion.

Signal from wicking part material change to trigger part

In one aspect, material changes in the wicking portion allow movement of one or more magnets within the trigger housing, which movement is detected by magnetic field coupling in the indicator housing, the latter triggering an alarm signal.

In another aspect, material changes in the wicking portion allow movement of one or more magnets within the trigger housing, which movement triggers movement of one or more magnets within the indicator housing, the latter triggering an alarm signal. In another aspect, the change of material in the wicking portion allows the movement of one or more magnets within the trigger housing, which movement in the indicator housing (or magnetic observation film with ferromagnetic emulsion) moves under the influence of a magnetic field and When the magnetic surface force exceeds the fluid weight and the stabilizing effect of the surface tension, it triggers a movement or image change of the fluid) creating a spike along the magnetic field line, the latter triggering an alarm signal. For example, in one aspect, when the trigger housing upward-facing magnet (also referred to as tray-coupled magnet) is moved under the film and the tray-coupled magnetic field line is perpendicular to the film surface, the observation film becomes darker, and the binding magnet moves away. When it is turned on. If the tray binding magnet is placed under the film, the magnet will appear dark with a bright outline. In the case of wet and dry separated text on the path of movement of the tray binding magnet, this will serve as an indication of the base trigger status. In another aspect, material changes in the wicking portion allow movement of one or more magnets within the trigger housing, which movement is detected by ferromagnetic metal in the indicator housing, the latter triggering an alarm signal. In another aspect, material changes in the wicking portion enable signal transmission by ferromagnetic metal in the trigger housing, which signal transmission is detected by one or more magnets in the indicator housing, the latter triggering an alarm signal.

It is to be understood that the term “movement” is considered to have the broadest possible meaning and includes horizontal and vertical movement, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotating, or any combination of the foregoing. do. It should be further understood that the signal alarm of the indicator part, mentioned above or may be triggered by, for example,

□ Magnetic paper (or film) that exhibits a magnetic field or other display material that exhibits a magnetic field in the presence of a magnetic field from the trigger housing.

□ One or more magnetic pop-up pins or magnets within the top indicator area (probably able to replace dark, different colored or opaque liquids (i.e. immune from freezing during winter))

□ As the upper cylinder tube in the indicator section, it reacts to be pulled up or down under the influence of a magnetic field in the trigger housing.

One or more means within the indicator part that allow for a visual change in shape, position, orientation, shading, light reflection, or color based on the influence of the magnetic field from the trigger housing.

It should be understood that these "magnetic field communication" components described above are not limited to shape, size, orientation or placement within the trigger portion and the indicator portion.

In one preferred aspect, the distal end of the wicking portion, which is most distal in engagement with the wicking sensor (wicking end portion), is detachably attached to the trigger end piece for placement within the channel of the trigger housing (housing and channel described in more detail below). Can be attached. In this configuration, the purpose of the trigger end piece is to act as a conduit for the signal from the substantially altered wicking portion to the trigger portion. Regardless of how the wicking portion is substantially altered, the trigger end piece residing within the channel of the trigger portion is the movement itself or movement of one or more other trigger housing components to affect the magnetic field coupling between the trigger portion and the indicator portion. It serves to provide "notice" by making it possible.

In one preferred aspect, the trigger end piece comprises i) an attachment end for removable attachment to the wicking end portion; ii) a holder for an upwardly facing magnet (facing the indicator portion); And iii) a holder for the front facing magnet (facing the fixed magnet disposed on the distal wall surface of the channel of the trigger housing). In this way, the movement of the wicking material (caused by the material change) is i) movement of the front facing magnet towards the fixed magnet; ii) Then the movement in i) causes the upwardly facing magnet to be detected (by the magnetic field) by at least one magnet in the indicator part, the latter detection and the magnet to generate an alarm. The trigger end piece, the engagement with the wicking portion end and the placement in the channel of the trigger housing are best shown in Figures 5 and 5B. Also shown is a critical space between the front facing magnet on the trigger end piece and the fixed magnet disposed on the distal wall surface of the channel of the trigger housing, which space is sufficient to inhibit any premature magnetic connection therebetween. Length, but once there is a material change in the wicking portion (e.g., the first portion of the wicking portion once engaged with the trigger end piece reacts to moisture and the second portion of the wicking portion engaged with the wicking sensor Separation from the part) enables reliable magnetic attraction/connection and can be separated from the wicking sensor.

In one aspect, as will be explained further below, one preferred means of material change in the wicking portion is through moisture-induced breakage of the joint on the wicking portion such that the wicking portion is divided into two when exposed to moisture. Such a joint can be created in advance during manufacture or installation along the length of the wicking part by joining the two parts of the wicking sensor via a water-soluble adhesive. In this way, the first portion of the wicking portion that engages with the trigger end piece is separated from the second portion of the wicking portion that engages with the wicking sensor. The separation, when in use, is preferably inside the channel of the trigger housing. The separation allows the front facing magnet on the trigger end piece to move by magnetic attraction towards the fixed magnet on the distal wall surface of the channel housing. The pre-moisture detection and pre-material change of the wicking portion was forcibly separated due to the fact that the front facing magnet on the trigger end piece was held in place due to engagement with the “intact” wicking portion.

For a clearer explanation, as described above, in either the trigger housing or the indicator housing, it is possible to replace one or more magnetic field generating magnets with ferromagnetic metal, but this is not a preferred configuration in all usage contexts, for example, Performance is degraded, suppressed and less reliable through thicker loop systems (eg SBS MB membrane system). A movable downward facing magnet or a lower case movable magnet on the top indicator component, both with vertically oriented magnetic fields, may have one of the magnets replaced by ferromagnetic metal. These ferromagnetic metals are strongly attracted by the magnetic field, but they are neither magnetic nor will they have any substantial magnetic field. Combinations of these metals can be used. Common ferromagnetic metals include, for example, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, dysprosium and steels that also contain certain ferromagnetic metals such as iron or nickel. For example, the upwardly facing magnet(s) in the trigger end piece, with the trigger housing, can pull the ferromagnetic metal part(s) present in the indicator housing to cause movement. Alternatively, the vertically oriented magnetic field movable magnet(s) in the indicator housing can be attracted to the ferromagnetic metal present in the trigger housing to cause movement. Trigger end magnets and fixed end magnets can also have a component of one of the ferromagnetic metal component(s), and the indicator portion on the roof membrane (also referred to as the indicator housing) can be reused again, but the loop membrane sensor and trigger The lower part under the part should be replaced or restored with a new dry wicking sensor for the trigger part so that it can be used for future leak detection (which can be replaced by a wicking cartridge for ease of use).

On the roof membrane above the base trigger housing, in the device (in which the indicator housing is permanently bonded and/or positioned, but held in place, e.g. using a locating magnet), there is no need to use or recharge the battery, Electronic devices do not break. During a loop inspection, the loop inspector or maintenance personnel, without additional tools, using only their own eyes, immediately check for leaks under the roof membrane near the RTU or in the area of the roof field away from the RTU, especially in the drain valley where moisture accumulates. I can confirm. If so, corrective action can be taken or an employee can take a picture to prepare a loop report. As such, the present system is inexpensive, powerful, and can be adapted to different roof structures, and can be installed relatively easily in existing roof systems.

Optionally, a small sticker can be attached to the indicator part on the upper loop membrane to show novice loop inspectors how the technique works, but learning is intuitive and straightforward. Alternatively, the indicator portion could be carried by a loop inspector and placed on the loop just above the membrane over the base sensor portion. In this case, a high visibility membrane (a pad of the shape and size of the sensor indicator) or a coating of similar size would have previously been installed and glued onto the roof membrane just over the base sensor portion. The loop inspector will look at this indicator's high visibility membrane and place an indicator on it to test for moisture under the membrane.

Loop sensor pair:

As explained overall, the present invention provides a two component sensor pair, (i) moisture sensing and triggering “base unit” under the roof membrane, often interchangeably referred to herein as “trigger portion” or “trigger housing”. (ii) and the sensor magnetic field sensing and coupling indicator “top unit” on the loop membrane, often referred to herein interchangeably as “indicator portion” or “indicator housing”. A pair of base unit moisture detection and trigger and upper unit magnetic field coupling and indicator sensors detect moisture leaks in the field area of the roof (away from the roof protrusions, curbs, railings and walls) and near the roof top unit (RTU) and other structures on the roof. It is intended to be used to do. However, the moisture detection and triggering unit may also be disposed behind the roof membrane exfoliation in the wall or railing wall or on the back of a dry wall, wood cladding, aluminum cladding or other non-ferromagnetic material.

In one preferred form, the base unit comprises: a) a wicking sensor that, when in use, is permeable to moisture in the vicinity of the base unit of the sensor pair; b) a non-permeable, wicking portion coupled to the wicking sensor in the longitudinal direction, allowing moisture wicking and movement along the wicking portion further away from the wicking sensor; And c) and a movable trigger end piece detachably attached to an end of the wicking portion (distal to the wicking sensor), wherein the movable trigger end piece comprises two magnets. do. One, when set up for use, is a front facing magnet disposed a small distance from a separate fixed magnet on the distal wall of the channel of the trigger housing in which the trigger end piece and the attached wicking portion are seated. After the material change to the wicking portion (as described above), the magnetic field between the front facing magnet and the fixed magnet on the distal wall of the channel is pulled towards the fixed magnet at the distal end of the trigger end piece. The second magnet in the trigger end piece is directed upwards with its magnetic field coupling towards the loop membrane and above the indicator portion/housing magnet with a downwardly facing magnet (bottom facing magnet, but same magnetic orientation). Top-facing magnet has an upward-facing magnetic field, the magnetic field of which penetrates the roof membrane and affects the magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator portion on the top of the roof membrane, and acts as an indicator portion to provide a visual alarm of moisture under the membrane. Has.

At the core of the sensor pair, the present invention is their non-electronic (eg, magnetic field based) communication with the base and upper units in the delivery of moisture detection. In order to understand the operation of the system, it is desirable to consider that the base unit moisture detection and trigger includes three "zones": first, as the sensor zone, which is permeable to moisture and removes moisture from within or from the desired area. The first, sensor zone that can be oriented in place to capture and wick the captured moisture away from the sensor zone. The wicking sensor in this zone, in some embodiments, is bendable or otherwise flexible enough to be located anywhere within the roof structure. However, it is required that at least one part of the wicking sensor is transmissive in this capture zone. In a preferred aspect, it is located anywhere in one type of use, under the roof membrane on the insulation or coverboard overlay, or under the vapor barrier and roof deck. The second "zone" is for moisture transfer and wicking and not for further moisture detection and capture. In this zone, the wicking portion is also bendable or otherwise flexible enough to be placed within the roof structure. The wicking section is designed in this way with the aim of avoiding erroneous moisture readings everywhere except for the desired capture area.

This may, for example, be associated with thermal insulation, but it is not the target moisture to be detected and picked up by the moisture wicking sensor. The second zone is only the moisture transfer conduit to the third and final zone, which allows trigger movement within the trigger housing, and in one embodiment, movement of the magnet on the trigger end piece is a separate fixation on the trigger housing itself. Is pulled towards the old magnet. While the trigger end piece is moving, the upwardly facing magnet on the upper surface of the trigger end piece (which may be referred to herein interchangeably as a “tray magnet” or “upward facing magnet”) is likewise moved, such that this upwardly facing magnet The upwardly opposing magnetic field of A passes through the loop membrane and into the upper top magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator housing to affect and control the movable magnet within the indicator housing. The magnet on the upper unit is contained in the chamber slot in the indicator housing, allowing it to move along the slot of the movable magnet to provide a visual indication of moisture leakage.

Other moisture detection and indicator devices do not function in this way without perforation through the roof membrane, and are presented with this degree of flexibility and adaptability to use near various loop structures and other protrusions or anywhere within the field region of the roof membrane. . On the base unit, the wicking sensor can be positioned as long or short as desired or flexibly within the desired moisture capture zone. The wicking portion functions integrally with the wicking sensor, can be flexible enough to rotate, orient, and bend around the structure, and carries moisture to the base trigger portion, which causes a "material change" to the wicking portion. And upon detection, triggering a moving trigger end piece magnet and its moving magnetic field. In the upper magnetic field coupling and indicator unit, the moving magnetic field from the lower base unit induces movement in the movable magnet of the upper unit, which provides a visual and visual alert to the user. Thus, the journey from the sensor zone to the alarm zone and from the base wicking sensor and trigger to the upper top magnetic field coupling and indicator portion of the present invention provides a new, unique, and very useful loop moisture sensor.

While not wishing to be limited to engagement with any one particular roof system and structure, this can be seen from exemplary FIG. 6 with the base unit wicking sensor positioned below the membrane and at the roof deck level. The configuration, orientation and placement of the wicking sensor can be varied as needed for each commercial, residential or industrial use.

The base trigger portion has at least one channel in it (although it should be understood that each wicking portion engages a separate wicking sensor, although multiple channels may be included for the arrangement of multiple trigger end piece/wicking portion combinations). It is preferred to include a housing/chamber having. Within this channel, and as described above, the trigger end piece is detachably attached to the mating wicking portion. In one aspect, the wicking portion attached to the trigger end piece is an adhesive that dissolves in relation to the moisture so that a portion of the wicking portion (attached to the trigger end piece) is separated when exposed to moisture moving from the wicking sensor (trigger end piece). At or near the point of attachment to the piece, or preferably on that point). When the wicking part in the channel and adjacent to the trigger end piece is wet and wicks moisture into the base trigger unit, the bond between the two parts of the wicking part is separated, so that the trigger end piece is a separate fixed magnet at the end of the channel wall. Toward, it is pulled through the attached front-facing magnet. When the wicking material bond is broken and the wicking portion is disengaged, the upwardly facing trigger end piece magnet also moves. Then, the magnetic field of these upwardly facing trigger end piece magnets penetrates through the top cover of the trigger housing, through the roof membrane, and through the base plate of the top indicator housing, affecting and moving the upper magnetic field-coupled sensor unit movable magnet. Let it. The movable magnet of the top unit is confined in its own slot or chamber (in the indicator housing) and is positioned so that it can move back and forth only in this slot or chamber. The movable magnets of the top unit can be coated with a different color paint for each half of the magnet, which when placed at one end of the slot shows only one color, and when placed at the other end of the slot or chamber. Color. In this configuration, the slot has a size, shape and configuration such that the magnet can move only half the length of the magnet in either direction. The center of the chamber or slot is obscured by a cover (or bar), hiding the opposite end color when sliding in one direction and the other end color when sliding in the opposite direction. In this configuration, the chamber or slot is effectively divided into three sections, with the middle third hiding the contents underneath. At each end only one third of the chamber or slot can be seen to indicate the color that will be exposed therein.

How to use:

The present invention includes a method of detecting moisture leakage in a roofing envelope, wherein the roofing envelope comprises a two-part sensor pair unit, one base wicking sensor and a trigger unit below the roof membrane, and one top magnetic field coupling sensor above the roof membrane. And a roofing membrane comprising installing an indicator unit. The base unit under the roof membrane consists of a section of the moisture wicking detection sensor(s), under the membrane, under the insulation coverboard, under the insulation layer or layers, over the roof vapor barrier or vapor retarder or over plaster or wood, It is located within a roof structure that sits on a metal or concrete deck. The base unit is a) a wicking sensor, which is permeable to moisture in the vicinity of the exposed wicking portion, b) a non-permeable moisture wicking portion, which is longitudinally or otherwise coupled to the exposed wicking sensor and away from the exposed wicking sensor. The non-permeable moisture wicking portion, which enables moisture wicking and moisture movement along the wicking portion; And c) as a trigger portion, a trigger end piece coupled longitudinally to the wicking portion, wherein upon occurrence of a material change to the wicking portion, the trigger end piece affects coupling of at least two magnetic fields. , Including the trigger part. In one preferred embodiment, as described above, the material change comprises some type of break or breakage of the wicking portion such that one portion of the wicking portion "moves freely with" the trigger end piece within the channel of the trigger housing. .

In one preferred embodiment, as described above, the trigger end piece comprises two magnets with different functions/purposes, all of which move according to the movement of the trigger end piece. The trigger housing comprises at least one fixed magnet in each channel at the distal point of this channel. One magnet, a "front-facing magnet" on the trigger end piece, is attracted by magnetic force with a magnet fixed at the end of the channel. However, until the setup and operation is used and moisture is detected, a space remains between the fixed magnet and the front facing magnet on the end of the channel. This space is of sufficient length to ensure that the trigger end piece is not aspirated to the end of the channel, provided that there is a material change in the wicking portion that allows the trigger end piece to "move" appropriately, signaling moisture detection. do. That is, the trigger end piece, once moisture is first detected by the wicking sensor and then the wicking portion, moves freely within the channel only under the force of the attraction of the front-facing magnet to the fixed magnet. During normal operation, the front facing magnet and the fixed magnet are maintained by the "dry" integrity of the wicking portion. For example, it may be desirable to lubricate the channel “slots” with oil, graphite or silicone lubricants, Teflon® or other non-tacky materials to minimize friction during movement of the trigger end piece (once activated). During normal operation, if moisture is detected, it is detected using the apparatus and methods described herein. The front facing magnet and the fixed magnet are attracted to each other (often quickly) in response to a material change to the wicking portion (through the trigger end piece moving within its slot/channel). Maintaining reduced friction in the slot/channel ensures correct operation of the device.

The second magnet on the trigger end portion (top-facing magnet) is a magnetic field “communicator” with an indicator housing over the roof membrane. If the trigger end piece moves under the force of attraction of the front-facing magnet to the fixed magnet, the upward-facing magnet may also move and affect the movable magnet(s) of the upper magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator unit (and move). Can). The upper magnetic field coupling sensor and display unit includes a chamber or slot that holds a downwardly opposite magnet that is influenced by a magnetic field of an upwardly opposite magnet and moves horizontally. If there are more than one wicking sensor/wicking portion/trigger end piece/channel in the trigger housing, there will be more than one corresponding chamber or slot and movable magnet in the top magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator unit. A magnet that can be moved above the upper unit functions as an indicator part. Periodically checking the indicator section for a visual alarm indicating that moisture has wicked from the wicking sensor under the roof membrane through the wicking section to provide an indication of the movement of the trigger end piece within the trigger housing and thus moisture leakage into the loop system. To trigger a material change that causes the movement of the upper opposing magnet, which affects and moves the movable magnet on the upper unit.

The main aspect of the pair of two-part loop sensor units of the present invention is that the user does not need to perforate through the roof membrane to determine the leak condition of the loop system. As discussed above, the two-part loop sensor unit can be used in a variety of loop systems.

Failure to detect, detect, and correct deterioration of small loops in the early stages is considered to be the biggest cause of premature loop failure, mainly due to deterioration of the roof insulation. This is especially the case for roof materials applied to low slopes or flat roofs. The costly loop problem is often due to design flaws or misapplication of the loop system. Even when properly designed and applied, all roof materials deteriorate from weather exposure at a rate primarily determined by the type of material and exposure conditions. In a preferred aspect, the method of the invention is used to detect and locate leaks and wet insulation in a roofing envelope, wherein the roofing envelope is placed on top of the insulation package (and possibly insulation overlay over insulation) A roofing membrane, which in turn is arranged on top of the roof deck. The roof system may also include a vapor barrier beneath the thermal insulation package. The roofing envelope may also include at least one loop structure/protrusion/RTU passing through at least one roofing membrane. The RTU may also include a handrail or control joint through the roof as well as an impingement wall bordering the roof area. Any wall surface with a protruding loop against it in order to watertight the roofing envelope at its junction is an impingement wall surface. “Impact” refers to any structure included in any of these terms that impinges on or blocks a waterproofing or roofing membrane. While it is common for all of the roofing membranes included in the multilayer roofing and waterproofing membrane assembly to be impacted, it will be appreciated that some impacts may only impact one or less of all layers.

Within the method of the present invention, the base trigger unit wicking sensor(s) and wicking portion(s) can be disposed in or through any layer of roofing material, as desired, but do not require perforation through the roof membrane. Does not. Since the loop membrane perforation itself adds to the potential risk of leakage, it is a distinct advantage to place the two-part sensor unit anywhere within the field area of the roof without the need for loop membrane perforation. An example of the usefulness of the present invention is when, during installation of a new roof system, a base moisture detection and trigger unit is installed in the roof drain valley. When it rains, the drain valley (and loop drain sump) tends to fill with water. Any membrane seam or penetration in the loop of the drain valley carries a tremendous risk for future leaks, but the use of a two-part perforated loop sensor results in a drain line valley (and loop drain sump) leak condition without the added risk of leakage. Can be monitored. In this sense, without new perforations in the present invention, we are not limited to installing loop sensors on the loop protrusions to avoid further perforations in the membrane.

Mobile application:

In one aspect, the method of the invention comprises at least one of entering a serial number on a portable microprocessing device, capturing a QR code image on a portable microprocessing device, capturing a barcode on a portable microprocessing device, or capturing another image or feature on a portable microprocessing device. It further comprises the step of identifying the moisture indicator upper unit through. Portable microprocessing units are provided (for use offline), or moisture indicator top unit, site , its features, GPS location, building details, visual alarm records, loop leak history, past repairs, contact information for key buildings and repair personnel. You have direct online access to the application for the collection, storage, processing and delivery of information related to one or more of the details ("reports"). The user can then view reports as needed and act accordingly regarding any detected moisture leaks.

The portable microprocessing device is selected from the group consisting of handheld devices, microprocessor based or programmable consumer electronics, mini computers, mobile smart phones, personal digital assistants and tablets.

In a preferred form, one means by which communication is triggered is through a visual cue readable by the portable microprocessing device, for example a visual cue readable by each of the scanners and cameras in the portable microprocessing device. Any visual representation of information that can be processed by visual recognition software can be used. An example of a visual cue is a QR code. The QR code is used here for illustrative purposes, but the QR code itself does not have to be a technology of choice. Any visual representation of information that is easily consumed by the visual recognition software can be used. As an alternative, it is simply to avoid errors that may occur due to damage to the QR code exposed to the element by the user manually entering the serial number into the portable microprocessing device.

Within the scope of the present invention, a mobile application encrypted by software is provided, which allows the user to download the application installed on his portable microprocessing device into the upper indicator unit, site features, GPS location, building details, visual alarm recording, loop. Enables the collection, storage, processing and transmission of information and data relating to one or more of leak history, past repairs, and contact details of key building and repair personnel. The application may include a vision recognition component that allows the information to be viewed and decoded in exactly the same manner as commonly available visual recognizers. The mobile application will enable immediate reporting of leaks, exact location, timestamp activity over any desired time frame, and will allow viewing of comparative data regarding one or more sensor top indicator units.

Applications are web applications, for example from various mobile software distribution platforms or web applications that are delivered over HTTP using server-side or client-side processing (such as JavaScript) to provide a "application-like" experience within a web browser. Can be downloaded by users/customers. Apps can be free or fee-based. The ongoing service provided with the app can be fee-based. In order to install a mobile device application, the user will typically agree to the installation by dragging and dropping the icon onto the device or clicking a button. Removing one is also simple, and usually involves deleting the icon or dragging it away from the device. When a user uninstalls a mobile device application, in many cases, it may lose all data related to this application because it is not stored separately. The number of applications that can be installed on a single device depends on the device's memory.

To support the present application, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a network device comprising: a memory; Processor; Communicator; display; And an adjustable and configurable application maintenance module to process content associated with one or more sensor top indicator units.

Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium for reliably storing computer-readable instructions for a method thereon, the method comprising: receiving data relating to a sensor from a mobile device; A mobile application that communicates data to a server and device type allowing the server to identify the data and any associated requests; In response to identifying the data and the mobile device type, passing response information to the mobile device in a format suitable for display on a mobile device interface.

The systems and methods described herein rely on a variety of computer systems, networks, and/or digital devices for operation, with respect to mobile applications. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, computing systems and web-based cross-platforms include non-transitory computer-readable storage media for reliably storing computer-readable instructions. To fully understand how a web-based cross-platform smartphone application creation and management system operates, it is useful to understand an appropriate computing system. The web-based cross-platform smartphone application creation and management system and method disclosed herein is possible as a result of the application through a suitable computing system.

In one aspect, a computer system (or digital device), which may be understood as a logic device adapted and configured to read instructions from a medium and/or network port, may have a fixed medium and connectable to a server. The computer system can also be connected to the Internet or intranet. The system includes a central processing unit (CPU), a disk drive, an optional input device such as a keyboard and/or mouse, and an optional monitor. Data communication can be accomplished via a communication medium to the server, for example at a local or remote location. The communication medium may include any suitable means for transmitting and/or receiving data. For example, the communication medium may be a network connection, a wireless connection, or an Internet connection.

It is contemplated that data relating to the present disclosure may be transmitted over such a network or connection. The computer system may be suitable for communicating with the participant and/or the device used by the participant. Computer systems can be adapted to communicate with other computers over the Internet or with computers through servers. Each computing device (including a mobile device) includes an operating system (OS), which is software consisting of software programs and data running on the device, manages device hardware resources, and is a common service for executing various application software. Provides. The operating system allows application programs to run on the device.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a computer-readable medium stores computer data, which data may include computer program code executable by a computer in a machine-readable form. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media may include computer-readable storage media for tangible or fixed storage of data, or communication media for temporary interpretation of code-containing signals. As used herein, computer-readable storage medium refers to physical or tangible storage (as opposed to a signal) and any method for tangible storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Or, volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable storage media implemented by technology are included without limitation. Computer-readable storage media include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other solid-state memory technology, CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage device, Or any other physical or material medium that can be used to reliably store desired information or data or instructions and that can be accessed by a computer or processor. Users can view digital content items by launching an app created by the app creator and downloaded to the user's mobile device, and can connect to the front-end server via a network, usually the Internet, but LAN, MAN, WAN, and mobile , Wired or wireless networks, private networks, or virtual private networks.

In a simple preferred aspect of operation, detecting the triggered two-part sensor unit, the user identifies the top indicator component using a mobile device (with access to the application thereon) by any means mentioned above. something to do. When taking a picture of a serial number, the picture can be saved as a sensor picture with or without other specific details. The mobile device can identify the GPS of the triggered two-part sensor unit. It can be stored as the GPS location of the sensor with or without other specific details. The user can be guided by the application to manually enter the serial number. The user can be guided by the application to take a picture of the site or local context of the location of the loop leak. It can be saved as an overview picture with or without other specific details. The user can be induced by the application to enter details about the building location, etc., which can be saved as building details with or without other specific details. The user may be driven by the application to enter employee details related to, for example, a building manager, owner or repair company. This can be stored as employee details with or without other specific details. The application automatically records the date and time of all items. Applications can prepare reports for users and can trigger a variety of other actions, including but not limited to:

Prepare a full report for a specific two-part sensor, including GPS location, optionally with satellite image location, and optionally with pinpoint arrows/guides of satellite imagery for specific building and specific sensor locations.

□ Prepare a full report for a specific 2-part sensor, including past and present leaks detected by the specific 2-part sensor.

□ Prompts related to emailing or providing push notifications to employees and third parties for reports on certain two-part sensors to employees and third parties through applications and/or association websites and/or social media platforms.

The user may need to enter more information for any given two-part sensor indicator component on the first instance/first use and less information for subsequent use of the application.

Inventive system and arrangement/installation:

The present invention provides a system for detecting and locating leaks in a roofing envelope in which the roofing envelope comprises a roofing membrane. The system generally includes a two-part moisture detection and indicator component and some type of loop system, as fully described herein. As mentioned above, the roof system provides a structure that holds the trigger housing and indicator housing, allowing the sensor pair to be installed in place in the most vulnerable area for possible leakage, and the top magnetic field coupled sensor and indicator housing are wicking sensor/wicking. It is located above the part and the trigger housing.

In a roof system, the RTU may include a base flange, vent, wall, railing, curb, hatch, gutter, drain or drain or other RTU. These are all potential sources of leaks that could be installed nearby when re-looping a two-part sensor pair.

Trigger housings and trigger end pieces with an associated wicking part/ventilation sensor attachment are usually installed when installing a new roof, where the trigger housing is undesirably placed on top of the insulation or insulation coverboard, preferably insulation or insulation. It can be recessed under the top of the cover board. For optimal operation, when recessed in the insulation or insulation coverboard, the top surface of the trigger housing completely contacts the underside of the roofing membrane without any gaps, allowing full magnetic coupling. In this way, using a thicker coverboard or insulation, in order to raise the trigger housing, a spacer shim can be added under the trigger housing (the bottom) to raise it. These spacer shims can be made of roofing membrane or insulation or other suitable material. Alternatively and preferably, the trigger housing height thickness can be made thicker to equally match any insulating coverboard thickness. For example, insulating coverboards are typically 1/2" thick, so the trigger housing will be made 1/2" thick. Then, it would be a simple matter to cut the shape of the trigger housing from the insulating coverboard, insert it into place, and cut the hole for the wicking portion to the deck level. The roof sensor trigger base housing can be installed under any single-ply roof membrane. By protecting the asphalt cover board or similar material across the top of the base sensor cover, the base sensor housing will be placed under the SBS-adjusted bitumen (MB) torch application roof or hot asphalt application roof system (no gravel ballast) where the sensor is located. I can.

A dual test chamber/slot (or more) with a trigger housing allows for moisture testing under the top layer of insulation due to the heat shrink wrapped casing sealed over a portion of the wicking portion. Only the distal end of the wicking sensor will detect moisture and will be exposed to wick it through the impermeable wicking portion to the trigger housing. For example, one wicking sensor may be placed on top of an insulating material or insulating coverboard, or anywhere between insulating layers. Other wicking sensors can also be placed on top of the insulation or insulation coverboard or anywhere between insulation layers. In the case of having a longer shielded wicking portion between the trigger housing and the exposed end of the wicking sensor, this can be further fed into the gypsum, vapor barrier or insulation to be installed on the roof deck.

During installation, the wicking sensor and the wicking part are oriented as desired, below the membrane on the insulation, above the coverboard, below the coverboard, at the lower level of the insulation, or above the vapor barrier, above the gypsum board, or above the steel, wood or concrete deck. The distal end of the wicking portion (distal to the wicking sensor) is fed into the distal wall (or bottom) aperture of the trigger housing and then connected to the trigger distal piece. There are various rational ways of making such connections, which are illustrated in the drawings herein. The key is to attach the method to the extent that this connection must be "tight enough" to keep the front facing magnet in front of the trigger end piece from its natural attraction to the fixed magnet on the distal wall of the channel. Is that this is important.

When the wicking sensor is installed with the trigger housing, the looper preferably rolls the field membrane to cover the base trigger housing. As the user passes the trigger housing location under the roofing membrane, the user can mark the general location of the roof with a crayon, pencil or spray paint or other method. Later the top indicator housing will be installed over the marked area of the roof membrane. In case of missing or forgotten markings on the roof membrane surface, the user can simply and easily locate the general position of the covered trigger housing with a top indicator part, using a metal detector, or a small piece of ferromagnetic metal that can be attracted to a magnet within the trigger housing. Can be found.

These steps are guidelines, and it should be understood that different installation designs and methods can be used to install the trigger housing, wicking sensor, wicking part, and the invention is not limited by the methods described herein.

When trying to match the top indicator housing with the installed trigger housing, direct and precise alignment of the two parts is required so that "moisture detection magnetic field coupling" is operable but can be designed to allow slight movement of the indicator part. One easy means by which the trigger housing and indicator housing can be held in positional relationship (without the use of membrane perforated screws or ties that physically couple the two parts together) is by magnetic engagement. Herein, this is referred to as “magnetic coupling position coupling” and is distinct from the “moisture active magnetic field coupling” described above. In a preferred form, each of the trigger housing and the indicator housing comprises, at their periphery, preferably four sets of magnets (e.g., one on four corners of each housing) so that the user triggers the indicator housing. Bring near or above, and guide the orientation and placement of the indicator housing when a magnetic coupling coupling is made between the indicator housing magnetic field coupling magnet and the trigger housing magnetic field coupling magnet. Only the natural physical attraction and repulsive force of the magnets in the trigger housing and indicator housing, when the indicator housing and trigger housing are both oriented in the same direction, the indicator housing is pulled into the loop and the proper orientation on the loop (basically by magnetic coupling in place). "Locked" in) so that it can be put in place.

This magnetic coupling is achieved by pulling between opposite polarity magnets and repulsive force having the same polarity magnets, and resistance and pulling forces to provide tactile and visual placement feedback to the installer to show how to install the indicator component. to provide. As an example: on the trigger housing , the magnets on the right side of the channel/slot are oriented with the opposite polarity facing up, attracting each other only by a small amount of attraction due to the distance between the magnets. On the trigger housing , the magnets on the left side of the channel/slot are also oriented in the same way with the opposite polarity facing up, attracting each other only by a small amount of attraction due to the distance between the magnets.

Thus, both sides of the trigger housing, which are perpendicular to the channel slot, have the same polarity facing upwards and repelling each other only by a small amount of repulsive force due to the distance between the magnets.

On the indicator housing , the magnets on the right side of the channel/slot are oriented with the opposite polarity facing up, attracted to each other only by a small amount of attraction due to the distance between the magnets. On the indicator housing , the magnets on the left side of the channel/slot are also oriented in the same way with the opposite polarity facing up, attracting each other only by a small amount of attraction due to the distance between the magnets. Thus, both sides of the indicator housing, which are perpendicular to the channel slot, have the same polarity that faces upward and repels each other only by a small amount of repulsive force due to the distance between the magnets. In addition, both the trigger housing and the indicator housing magnet are installed so that the trigger housing and the indicator housing are attracted to each other.

If the indicator housing is oriented 180 degrees reverse, the same polarity between the magnet at the edge of the trigger housing and the top magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator unit component housing will prevent placement of the top magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator housing. For example, the N pole pushes the N pole and the S pole pushes the S pole. A different orientation than the correct orientation tends to pull, push and rotate the magnet, thus resulting in the correct orientation where the top magnetic field coupled sensor and indicator housing is essentially "locked" in position. Sliding the indicator slightly, you will have a force applied by the magnet of the indicator and the base which tends to snap the indicator back to the "locked" position. When in the "locked" position, the top indicator unit does not easily rotate or move out of position. Tactile feedback provides a learning experience that allows you to close your eyes and carry out the process.

This is similar physics to what happens when a magnet is dropped near another bottom immovable magnet where the top magnet is pulled in the correct magnetic direction and position. In this embodiment, the falling magnet can be oriented 180 degrees in either direction when attached. However, in the case of the present invention, the trigger housing and the indicator housing have a fixed position pair of opposite polarity magnets. Thus, the indicator housing and trigger housing can be oriented in only one direction and can essentially be "locked" in place with respect to each other. When magnets of opposite polarity are attracted to each other.

In addition, it may be desirable to also position the wicking sensor housing behind the wall surface, oriented vertically on its side.

In this way, the indicator housing is installed over the wall surface and can be adhered to it by adhesive, peel and stick membrane, or some other method for attaching to the wall surface. When carrying the indicator with a loop inspector, a high visibility membrane can be placed over the base sensor housing position and locked in place over the base sensor housing.

If moisture is detected, it may be desirable to reset the components in the trigger housing and indicator housing for reuse. Regarding the indicator housing, no action is required if the base sensor housing is reset to dry. It's easy and simple to do. With respect to the trigger housing, the wicking sensor/wicking part needs to be replaced, and a new wicking sensor/wicking part is attached to the trigger end piece. Then, the trigger end piece is reset as fully described herein (to ensure space 2a). The base sensor housing may have a replaceable cartridge for this purpose in which the dry wicking sensor and trigger tray assembly are included.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to permanently install the top indicator housing on the roof surface. There are various non-limiting ways to achieve this. It may be desirable to do this, as the following example shows:

A. Attaching the indicator housing to the upper loop surface of a single-ply membrane such as EPDM, TPO and PVC membranes (or other single-ply membranes):

Method # 1:

-Primer roof surface.

-Use of adhesive to bond the roof of the indicator housing and the bottom of the roof

-Use of loop wrap sealant caulking around the indicator housing (optional).

Method # 2:

-Primer roof surface.

-Loop position indication (one problem is that the housing is difficult to move once placed). This can be achieved by first placing the upper indicator housing of the loop in the correct position and orientation before marking the four sides of the loop with a marking crayon, pencil or pen. Then, the double-sided EPDM seam tape release sheet is pulled off, and the indicator housing is placed on the roof.

-Use of roof wrap sealant caulk around the periphery of the indicator housing as additional protection (optional).

B. In the SBS MB roof, the top indicator housing can be installed on the membrane as follows:

-Incorporating granules on the granular membrane surface of the SBS MB loop.

-Primer roof surface.

-Loop position indication (one problem is that the housing is difficult to move once placed). This can be achieved by first placing the top indicator component of the loop in the correct position and orientation before marking the four sides of the loop with a marking crayon, pencil or pen. Then, the double-sided EPDM seam tape release sheet is pulled off and the top indicator housing is placed on the roof.

-Apply a thin bead of elastomeric roof mastic to the bottom of the top indicator component and correctly orient and position the top indicator housing on the roof.

-Use of roof wrap sealant caulk around the top indicator housing (optional).

C : EPDM, TPO or PVC membrane with sensor base:

-The top magnetic field coupling sensor and indicator housing can be fabricated from small pieces of single-ply membrane that can be adhered to the claim membrane by adhesive, thermal welding, seam tape or other means depending on the roof membrane system.

Magnet preference:

According to the scope of the present invention, a variety of magnets may be used for different purposes, having different arrangements and orientations, different sizes and shapes. With regard to the magnetically connected coupling magnet and also the moisture detection magnetic field coupling magnet inside each of the trigger housing and indicator housing for safe and positionally accurate alignment and maintenance, various types of magnets are suitable, but are not limited thereto. Includes: spherical magnets with low Tesla magnetic field number grade, ferrite, ceramic, Alnico. Prefer rare earth types with a higher Tesla magnetic field number rating:

Neodymium or samarium-cobalt or any combination thereof.

With regard to the number, placement and orientation of magnets, given all the details of the architecture of the system, housing and method in the case of the present invention, those skilled in the art will be able to make small adjustments and changes to each particular application as needed. Is submitted. With respect to the magnetically connected coupling magnets in each trigger housing and indicator housing for safe, positionally accurate alignment and holding in place, any reasonable number of magnets can be used. Four are preferred for each housing (the edge of the housing). Other numbers may be used as long as there is an opposing polarity to one end or side of the housing to allow only one orientation installation orientation between the trigger housing and the indicator housing.

With respect to a moisture-detecting magnetic field-coupled magnet, the end result is that if the magnet configuration i) responds to material changes in the wicking portion and ii) activates the magnetic field coupling with the indicator housing in any way, then any configuration or magnet in the trigger housing Numbers are fully included within the scope of the present invention.

In a preferred aspect of the device of the invention, and as shown in the figure below, referred to as a locating magnet or a matching magnet or a permanent cylinder magnet on the trigger/indicator housing, 19, 20, 21 and 22 for the indicator housing, the trigger There is a magnetically connected mating magnet in each of the trigger housing and indicator housing to maintain secure and positionally correct alignment and in place, shown as 6, 7, 8 and 9 relative to the base housing. These can be of any shape, such as, for example, square, rectangular, cylinder or other shaped magnets, but most preferably they are cylindrical.

The non-electronic indicator housing includes four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, where two are front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets and two are rear cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets, and the trigger housing is each It also includes four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at the corner, where two are front cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets and two are rear cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets, wherein said rear cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnet is a front There is an opposite polarity orientation for the cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnet, so that the indicator housing can only be positioned in one orientation relative to the trigger housing. This makes setup and alignment of the entire device easy and simple.

In a preferred aspect of the device of the present invention, and as shown in the figure below, the indicator housing moves from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection) upon receipt of a trigger signal from the trigger housing. It is possible, and then includes an indicator magnet 25 for generating a leak notification, where the two front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets have the same polarity and orientation as the indicator magnet, so that until moisture detection and triggering the indicator magnet is 2 It is held in place by the four front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets (cannot be physically pulled to the triggered position).

In a preferred aspect of the device of the present invention, and as shown in the figure below, the trigger end piece 34 comprises a front facing magnet 35 and an upward facing magnet 36. The front facing magnet is polarized so as to be attracted to the fixed magnet 2 which is arranged at the very end of the channel in the trigger housing. Until the triggering event (moisture detection), there is a space between the front facing magnet 35 and the fixed magnet 2. This space and its maintenance is an indication of no moisture and no activation of the device/alarm. These magnets can be of any shape, such as, for example, square, rectangular, cylinder or other shape, but most preferably, they are rectangular.

In a preferred aspect of the device of the present invention, and as shown in the figure below, the indicator housing 18 comprises one or more indicator magnets 25, which are triggered from an untriggered position as further described herein. Move to the position (activate the alarm). These magnets can be of any shape, such as, for example, square, rectangular, cylinder or other shape, but most preferably, they are rectangular.

More specifically, when the indicator housing is positioned on the loop above the trigger housing, the following occurs. The front/front position magnets 20 and 21 on the indicator housing have the same magnet polarity and orientation as the indicator magnet 25, and essentially force the indicator magnet 25 back into the untriggered position. When there is no force from the upper opposing magnet 36 that pulls the indicator magnet 25 forward to the triggered position, the indicator magnet 25 is held back by the position magnets 20 and 21 so that it cannot be physically pulled into the triggered position. Can't. This preferred arrangement, within the device of the present invention, prevents false positives rather than allowing the indicator to float freely without the forced coupling magnetic field, and the user misinterprets the sensor trigger state. To achieve this, the indicator magnet 25 is preferably positioned at a suitable rear distance from the positioning magnets 20 and 21 (but not too far so that these positioning magnets do not force the magnet back). It is important to have the same polar orientation.

In a preferred aspect of the device of the invention, and as shown in the figure below, the trigger housing can be set when used within the channel of the trigger housing, the trigger end piece being the wicking portion distal to the wicking sensor ( A trigger end piece (34), which can be detachably attached to one end of the "trigger portion"), wherein the trigger end piece comprises a front facing magnet (35) and an upward facing indicator housing coupling magnet (36). And, the channel of the trigger housing includes a fixed magnet 2 that is attracted by the front facing magnet.

The indicator housing is movable upon receipt of a trigger signal from the trigger housing from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection), and then includes an indicator magnet 25 for generating a leak notification, , Where the upwardly facing trigger housing coupling magnet is intentionally positioned, pulled substantially back from the indicator magnet, and accurately positioned and when the indicator housing is adhered to the building membrane directly above the trigger housing, the indicator magnet and the upwardly facing trigger The pull between the housing coupling magnets is substantial, and when there is a trigger of moisture detection, the front facing magnet is essentially "slingshot" or forced towards the fixed magnet, and the upwardly triggered housing coupling magnet is with the indicator magnet. Helps overcome friction by engaging.

More specifically, when the upwardly facing (tray-coupled) magnet 36 is intentionally positioned and pulled substantially back from the upper indicator magnet 25, so that the indicator housing is accurately positioned and adhered to the roof surface just above the base sensor housing, The pull between the upper indicator magnet and the lower tray coupling magnet is significant, and when the base is triggered, it helps the tray to be slingshot towards the sensor channel end magnet. At the same time, the tray binding magnet holds the upper indicator magnet and helps to rush towards the opposite trigger end by overcoming friction below its surface. Alternatively, coupling tray magnets directly on top of each other may limit the movement of the indicator magnets due to friction under the indicator magnets pulling each other. The tray binding magnet will also have more friction with the ceiling of the base sensor cover.

Alarm signal

While a variety of different alarms/alerts are within the scope of the present invention, whatever mechanism is applied, it is desirable to be clearly visible to the naked eye on or near the top surface of the indicator housing. In some cases, the alarm may be some visual cue to the actual housing itself, but may also be audio-based (eg, alarm) or signal-based when relayed through an internet-enabled communication module within the indicator housing. For example, trigger combinations or indicator magnet position changes (indicating leak conditions) can be communicated via Wi-Fi, internet enabled communication modules, or other radio frequency methods.

In the latter case, the information can be captured by monitoring the position change of the indicator magnet with a Hall effect sensor, or pair of infrared transmitters and transistors, or other sensing techniques, all of which are known to those skilled in the art. For example, microcontroller IC circuits such as those manufactured by PIC can be used to control operations involving Wifi circuits with electronic component accessories. Alternatively, custom IC circuits may be provided to replace PIC microcontrollers and Wifi circuits, or selected other microcontrollers that include Wifi circuits or use other wireless communication technologies. Among other energy supply means, solar cells and batteries can be used to power the circuit.

In one aspect, the color of the magnet(s) of the indicator housing may be tinted with a different color: alternative colors such as yellow or orange may be used for the magnet to indicate moisture leakage, or a different color may be used for lapping. I can. Other colors indicating dry or wet may be used. White, silver, gold or other brightly reflective paints or colorants, materials or substances may be used to aid in the marking. In another aspect, the top cover of the indicator housing may have a bright and/or fluorescent color to provide high visibility. In another aspect, the indicator housing may have a fluorescent property to emit light at night after absorbing ultraviolet rays. In another aspect, the indicator housing may contain some added reflective particles or other similar material to allow reflection from an artificial light source or sunlight. In another aspect, the indicator housing may include a reflective “cat eye” to make it visible to the naked eye. In another aspect, the indicator housing may include a magnifying lens or a built-in lens to aid in visual inspection. In another aspect, the indicator housing may contain an alarm with a printed message, for example, the indicator magnet may contain a message with an alarm to the observer printed thereon. For example, the following message may be displayed: "Leak". In another aspect, the indicator housing may further include or be associated with a small flag on the bendable pole to remove the position indication.

In yet another embodiment, the magnet in the trigger housing may be configured with a magnetic field pushed upward against an opposite polarity oriented magnet showing that the upward movement shows that the upper display top is accurately centered over the lower base. Alternatively, magnets with the same polarity orientation can lower the upper magnet supported over the top cover. This movement can reveal the upper surface of the upper magnet, which can be painted in an exposed color, for example replacing an opaque liquid.

Indicator housing options:

1. Alternatively, the indicator housing may include a peel and stick adhesive attached to its underside.

2. Alternatively, the indicator housing may comprise an adhesive glue applied to its underside.

3. Alternatively, the indicator housing may comprise a mastic or adhesive applied to the underside thereof with a wrap sealant caulk applied to the edge of the caulk.

Detailed description of the drawings:

Returning to the drawings, like numbers indicate similar features on the device.

Referring to Fig. 5, the interior layout of the trigger housing 1 is provided, open and exposed (shown in Fig. 2 and without cover or cover), without the base cover 17 (shown in Fig. 2). The trigger housing 1 comprises four permanently positioned cylinder magnets 6, 7, 8 and 9 that are different but positioned to have a planned magnetic field polarity orientation. It can be seen that the magnet 9 of the trigger housing 1 is disposed in the base recess 9A. These four permanently positioned cylinder magnets 6, 7, 8 and 9 have a magnetic field oriented upwardly perpendicular to the trigger housing. The trigger housing also has one chamber slot (also referred to as a channel) 11 formed in the housing through which the trigger end piece 34 can be fitted (in response to a moisture detection event) and then moved therein.

A permanently positioned "fixed" magnet 2 is arranged at the end of the channel/chamber slot 11. It should be noted that magnet 2 may be a single solid magnet, or may consist of more than one magnet coupled with magnetic attraction to each other. These magnets 2 are positioned and oriented such that the magnetic field is directed in the longitudinal direction of the chamber slot. Additional slots and magnets may be provided in the housing if necessary to detect moisture at different altitudes within the roof system. Each trigger end piece 34 has a permanently attached front facing magnet 35 facing the chamber slot magnet 2 and has a separation distance 2A between each of the two magnets 2 and 35. . This separation distance 2A can be set as needed for optimal performance, but is typically 13mm apart (however, dimensions can be changed according to specific design requirements). This distance provides the proper triggering of the sensor by causing the magnet to snap with the strongly attracting magnetic field of the magnets 2 and 35 (in case of moisture detection and material change in the wicking part), but between the magnets 2 and 35. The attracting magnetic field of is not so far away that it is too weak to move the movable trigger end piece 35 towards the magnet 2. In addition, the trigger end piece 34 has a wicking section 10A on the upper surface 37 at the opposite end of the forward oriented magnet 35, wherein the exposed wicking portion 10A is permanently adhesive and/or mechanically attached. See FIG. 1 attached to the upper flat surface 37 on the trigger end piece 34 (e.g., by stapling or riveting) or other attachment method.

5C, the front end of the exposed wicking portion 10B is (in one preferred embodiment) superimposed on the exposed wicking portion 10A adhered with a water soluble adhesive 10F. The overlapping section 10B can be designed as required, but can typically be approximately 5-10 mm long.

More specifically, the amount of overlap of 10B also controls and affects the time for a "material change" to occur, i.e. the time it takes for moisture to dissolve the water soluble adhesive, which is shown enlarged to 10F in FIG. 5F. . The wicking portions 10B to 10E are one continuous wicking piece having 10E, which is a wicking sensor (permeable to moisture). However, for clarity, each of these parts is separately labeled to describe its function: 10B, 10C, 10D and 10E. Referring to Fig. 1, during installation, the exposed wicking portion 10E (no heat shrinkable tube cover as existing around the wicking portion 10D) is through the bottom of the base trigger housing 1 (an enlarged view). 5G) extending through the heat shrink tube 10D and between the removable terminal rod 43A and the base sensor housing section 43B (as shown in the enlarged FIG. 5G) as shown in FIG. 5G. The port/opening 4 (as shown in FIG. 5D) along the wicking section 10C is a wicking section 10B that is superimposed on the wicking section 10A on the trigger end piece 34 (see FIG. 5F ). Extends along.

Referring to Figure 1, one implementation of a moisture detection system, comprising a moisture wicking portion generally denoted 42, generally denoted 44, and a trigger system (including trigger end piece 34) generally denoted 46 A city of courtesy is provided. The moisture wicking portion includes a wicking sensor 10E and wicking portions 10B to 10D. As described in more detail below, the 10B to 10D portions are differentiated in terms of functionality. Also referring to Figure 5c, the trigger end piece 34 is detachably attached to the wicking portion 10A and the wicking portion 10B thereof, and two magnets, (in place, facing the chamber slot magnet 2) ) A front facing magnet 35 and an upward facing magnet 36. The portion 10A on the trigger end piece 34 is made of the same wicking material as found in 10B-10E, but is separated and bonded and/or mechanically attached to the trigger end piece 34. 10F is a water soluble adhesive applied to the wicking portion 10A, and when compression is applied to the two pieces until moisture wicks along 10E to 10B to dissolve the adhesive 10F, the wicking portions 10A and 10B ) To form a bond. In Figure 1, the wicking portion 10C is formed at 10C when the (removable) end rod 43A (best shown in Figure 1A) is mechanically attached to the trigger base housing 1 (surface rippled under 43B). It is shown as a compression line or an additional line representing ripple, and the end bar 43A is also shown in Fig. 5B and an enlarged Fig. 5G.

Referring to FIG. 1A, a bottom surface of the piece and section of FIG. 1 is shown. The reinforcing material 57 is attached to the wicking portion at 10E and 10D, and at 10D the heat shrink tube is attached to a portion of the reinforcing portion 57 and the wicking portion inside 10D. The terminal rod 43A is shown on the underside where the wicking portion 10C lies across it in this rear view. 34A is a section of trigger end piece 34 from which plastic has been removed to reduce friction between the bottom surface of the trigger end of the base sensor housing and the bottom of the channel.

Referring to FIG. 5D, it shows the underside of the trigger base housing 1 where the wicking sensor 10E exits the housing through the port 4. 53C and 53D are hexagonal-shaped holes in the bottom surface of the trigger base housing 1, in which a terminal rod fastening nut (see Fig. 5C) (53A and 53B) (53B is hidden from the drawing in Fig. 5C) is inserted, The set screws 41A and 41B (see Fig. 5D) are fixed to the nut.

5B, the rim 1A of the lid 17 is mated with the trigger base housing 1 to form a seal between the lid 17 and the trigger base housing 1. The two pieces along this rim can be sealed with a waterproof adhesive. Although not shown in the drawings, the cover 17 may include a serial number, a QR code, a barcode or other "indicator housing identification means".

3 shows a top indicator housing 18 with permanently disposed cylinder magnets 19, 20, 21 and 22 at each corner of the indicator housing 18. It can be seen that the cylinder magnet 19 of the indicator housing 18 is disposed in the housing recess 19A. The permanent cylinder magnets 19, 20, 21 and 22 are mounted such that their magnetic downward field polarity is attracted to the cylinder magnets 6, 7, 8 and 9 of their respective base trigger housing 1. Thus, the cylinder magnet 19 of the indicator housing 18 is mated with and attracted to the cylinder magnet 6 of the trigger housing 1. The cylinder magnet 20 of the upper indicator housing 18 is mated with and attracted to the cylinder magnet 7 of the trigger housing 1. The cylinder magnet 21 of the upper indicator housing 18 is mated with and attracted to the cylinder magnet 8 of the base trigger housing 1. The cylinder magnet 22 of the indicator housing 18 is mated with and attracted to the cylinder magnet 9 of the base trigger housing 1. The indicator housing 18 has a surface 27 with one recessed channel slot 23. The channel slot 23 has a magnet 25 of a rectangular shape in the channel slot logically divided into two identical magnet sections 25A and 25B, and the upper surface of the section 25A can be painted a distinct color such as red. In addition, the other section 25B may be painted in a distinct color such as painted green.

By design of the channel slot magnet 25, it moves freely in any direction by 1/2 of the length of the magnet in the channel slot. If the length of the magnet is 10 mm, the magnet can move 5 mm in one direction and 5 mm in the other direction. Thus, the channel slot 23 is only 15 mm long. The magnetic field of the magnet 25 in the channel slot 23 is directed downward toward the magnet 36 opposite the trigger end piece (in the trigger housing), which affects the movement of the magnet 25 within the channel slot 23. It has a vertically opposed magnetic field. As the magnet 25 moves in one direction or the other direction by 5 mm, the top of the red or green magnet color is covered through the transparent window 51 or the rod 50 (also in FIG. 3A), as shown in FIG. Is visible or obscured by (shown). This alarm is located on the upper surface 33 of the lid 28 of the indicator housing. 3, the rod covering 50 covers the middle 5mm section of the channel 23, thus hiding 25A or 25B depending on the position of the magnet 25. The rod cover 50 does not contact the magnet 25 so that the magnet 25 can move freely. It can be seen that the movement and magnetic coupling from the upwardly directed magnet 36 will affect the movement in the top indicator magnet 25. Thus, when the upward facing magnet 36 moves in one direction, the indicator channel slot magnet, magnet 25 will follow the moving direction. The measurements described above are for illustrative purposes only.

3A shows a side view of a component with an indicator housing 18 and a lid 28. The indicator window 51 is above the recess 23A holding the glass 58 over the rod covering 50 over the magnet 25 in the channel 23. The edge 18A is a position where the lid 28 mates with the base of the indicator housing 18.

8 and 9 are intended to show the trigger housing 1 in which the trigger end piece 34 is not in place (FIG. 8) and the trigger end piece 34 is in place (FIG. 9 ). More specifically, the permanent cylinder magnets 6, 7, 8 and 9 will mate with the permanent cylinder magnets 19, 20, 21 and 22 on the indicator housing. The fixed magnet 2 is at the end of the channel 11. In Fig. 9, there is a "activation" of the trigger end piece 34, in place within the channel 11 such that the front facing magnet 35 engages the fixed magnet 2 (attracted), and the wicking portion (10A) is separated from the wicking portion 10B (i.e., a material change occurs), and the separation acts on its attraction to the magnet 2 with the front facing magnet 35 fixed on the trigger end piece 34 Made it possible. Further, as described in detail herein, an upwardly facing magnet 36 is shown that, in place, acts on a magnetic field with an indicator housing.

(See Figs. 7, 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D) An alternative embodiment of a two-channel version of the trigger housing, trigger housing cover, indicator housing, indicator housing cover and trigger portion.

7 is an isometric view including a top indicator housing (2 channel version) with visible portions of both a wicking sensor and trigger housing (2 channel version);

Fig. 7a is a top plan view of the inner layout of the housing (two channel version) of the trigger part, open and exposed (with or without the cover shown in Fig. 7b);

7B is a plan view of the underside of the lid of the housing (two channel version) of the trigger portion;

Fig. 7c is a top plan view of the interior layout of the housing (two channel version) of the indicator part, open and exposed (with or without the cover shown in Fig. 7d);

Fig. 7d is a plan view of the underside of the lid of the housing (two channel version) of the indicator part, shown in Fig. 7c;

Reference numerals 80 (see Fig. 7A) and 82 (see Fig. 7C) refer to the left channel in the trigger housing and indicator housing, respectively. Reference numerals 81 (see Fig. 7A) and 83 (see Fig. 7C) refer to the right channel in the trigger housing and indicator housing, respectively.

Triggering mechanism

(See FIGS. 5, 5B, 5F and 5G) Wicking when moisture enters the wicking sensor section 10E and moves through the wicking portions 10D and 10C (as shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 5G) In the overlapping wicking portion 10B (as shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 5F) dissolving the water-soluble adhesive 10F as shown in FIG. 5F located at the overlapped joint between the portions 10B and 10A. Reach. When the adhesive 10F is dissolved, the bond between the wicking portions 10A and 10B is broken, causing the trigger end piece to move toward the fixed magnet 2. When the abutment 10F breaks, the trigger end piece (especially the front facing magnet 35) is pulled towards the base trigger housing magnet 2 and snaps the magnets 35 and 2 together firmly (or to the wall between them). do. The magnetic field of the upper-facing magnet 36 affects and pulls the magnetic field in the magnet 25 capable of moving the upper indicator. There are no leaking or wet wicking parts (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and 10E) and a gap (2A) between the magnet (2) with the trigger end piece(s) (34) fixed and the trigger end piece front facing magnet (35). ), when aligned with the trigger end piece top-facing magnet (36), the top indicator component magnet (25), the magnet visible through the indicator window (51) located on the top surface (33) of the top indicator cover (28). Align with the color green (see Figs. 3, 4 and 6A).

The position and alignment of the upwardly facing magnet 36 pulls the upper indicator magnet 25 in the channel slot 23 toward the rear of the upper indicator channel slot 23.

As shown in FIG. 6, the indicator housing 18 is disposed above the trigger housing 1 in the cover board 55 and the roof membrane 40 disposed above the lid 17. The shielded wicking portion 10D descends along the insulation 39 to place the exposed wicking sensor 10E on the concrete deck 38 (or other type of deck as needed).

6A is an enlarged isometric view of an indicator portion, which is an exploded version of the specific area shown in FIG. 6. As mentioned herein, the channel slot 23 contains an upper indicator magnet 25 of preferably rectangular shape, wherein the channel slot is logically divided into two identical magnet sections 25A and 25B. These can be of distinct colors. For example, the upper surface of the magnet section 25A may be painted a distinct color such as red, and the upper surface of the magnet section 25B may be painted a distinct color such as green. 6A further shows the rod covering 50, the indicator window 51 and the upper indicator magnet 25.

In one aspect, the wicking portion is covered with a protective waterproof covering or sheath 10D that functions to ensure only moisture coming into contact with the wicking sensor 10E, along all or part of its length, and the wicking portion 10D is covered. Accordingly, it is wicked to the re-exposed area at 10C and 10B. In this way, there is no false reading due to moisture coming into contact with the wicking portion 10D other than the intended wicking sensor section 10E. In addition, it is contemplated that the waterproof covering may also help to improve the wicking efficiency of the wicking portion through a combination of capillary action and reduced evaporation of moisture wicked along the wicking section 10D.

The wicking portions/sensors in sections 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and 10E may be composed of different wicking materials from polyvinyl alcohol, polyester fibers and/or polyester open cell material configurations. A number of alternative and suitable materials that can be used as wicking materials will be known to those skilled in the art, including open cell materials, fibers, microfibers, and the like. The suitability of the material may be, for example, (i) the fiber type or open cell type of the wicking material; (ii) the construction, structure and combination of fibers and cells of wicking material; (iii) the weight or thickness of the wicking material; And (iv) the presence of chemical treatment in the wicking material.

The wicking moieties/sensors 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D and 10E may be made of organic or synthetic fibers and/or open cell materials, chemicals and inorganic or organic compounds, or combinations thereof. A number of suitable materials can be selected. Of course, the main function is that the substance, once detected, is effective in wicking and delivering moisture along the length of the wicking portion. Other factors to consider may include one or more of the following: wicking rate, durability, stability (such as Viser-Vis temperature changes), microbial resistance, non-flammability, flame retardancy, reversibility, etc.

As described above, to avoid false readings in the wicking section 10D (eg, due to moisture providing an untested loop component), the section 10D may be enclosed within a waterproof covering. The covering can be transparent or opaque. Preferably, the covering is made of a plastic or other material that is flame retardant, flame retardant, nonflammable, self-extinguishing, temperature resistant, water resistant and at least one of scuff resistant and puncture resistant. Materials suitable for covering on the 10D include, but are not limited to: PVC heat shrink tubing, PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) plastic heat shrink tubing; Or PEEK (polyether ether ketone), a linear semi-crystalline aromatic polymer plastic heat shrinkable tube.

Further preferred embodiments :

The present invention provides an apparatus for use in detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane, comprising: i) a wicking sensor ii) a wicking portion longitudinally or otherwise coupled to the wicking sensor; iii) a non-electric trigger housing for placement under a building membrane in use, the non-electric trigger housing adapted to receive a signal from the wicking portion in response to moisture from the wicking sensor; And iv) in use, a non-electronic indicator housing for placement over the building membrane and in alignment with the trigger housing, suitable for receiving a non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing and thereafter generating a notification of a leak. Includes a non-electronic indicator housing.

Preferably, the non-electronic trigger signal is at least one magnetic field combination of two or more components within the trigger housing and the indicator housing. Preferably, the notification is achieved by coupling of two or more magnets (at least one below the building membrane and at least one above the building membrane), which is otherwise separated from the trigger housing until a non-electric trigger signal is present. Preferably, the trigger housing comprises a trigger end piece that is settable when used within the channel of the trigger housing, the trigger end piece being detachably attached to one end of the wicking portion ("trigger portion") distal to the wicking sensor. have. Preferably, the wicking portion is materially changeable in response to moisture from the wicking sensor ("material change"), and the wicking portion is materially changeable in response to moisture from the wicking sensor ("material change" ), thereby forming means for activating a trigger portion to couple a first magnetic field in the trigger housing and a second magnetic field in the indicator housing, after which the engagement activates a moisture alarm in the indicator housing. Preferably, the trigger end piece comprises a magnet fixed at the distal end of the channel during device setup and a front facing magnet attracted but spaced apart from an upward facing magnet attracted to the magnet in the indicator housing. Preferably, the material change includes, but is not limited to, separation, destruction, dissolution of the part, stretching, contracting, swelling, rising, vertical or horizontal descending or diagonal movement, pulling, pushing, or any combination thereof. It is any physical destruction of the wicking portion.

Preferably, magnetic field coupling is achieved by coupling of two or more magnets (one below the building membrane and one above the building membrane) that are otherwise separated until there is a material change in at least one part of the wicking sensor. Preferably, the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in the channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is at one end of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable, and the device comprises a front facing magnet and an upward facing magnet on the trigger end piece, a magnet fixed at the end of the channel of the trigger base housing, and at least one indicator housing magnet, wherein the magnet is horizontal And vertical movement, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotation, or any combination of the above.

Preferably, the device of the present invention is disposed on a trigger end piece, which, during device setup, is attracted but spaced apart from a magnet fixed at the end of the channel in the trigger housing and an upwardly facing magnet attracted by the magnet in the indicator housing. It is made possible by a material change in at least one part of the wicking sensor, which moves the forward facing magnet that has been turned on, where the magnet moves horizontally and vertically, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering. , Rotation or movement including any combination of the above is possible. Preferably, the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in the channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is at one end of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable, wherein the device adds means for pulling the trigger end piece ("pull means") in response to a material change in the wicking portion to deliver the non-electronic trigger signal to the indicator to enable notification of a leak. Include as. Preferably, the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in the channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is at one end of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable, wherein the device adds means for pushing the trigger end piece ("press means") in response to a material change in the wicking portion to deliver the non-electronic trigger signal to the indicator to enable notification of a leak. Include as. Preferably, the pulling means is any biasing means selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs and other materials capable of producing a pulling force. Preferably, the pressing means is any deflecting material selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs, inflation materials and other materials capable of producing a pressing force. More preferably, the pressing means is any expandable material selected from the group consisting of compressed rubber, plastic foam, and other compressed materials and materials capable of producing a pressing force.

Preferably, the trigger housing comprises a trigger end piece that is settable when used within the channel of the trigger housing, the trigger end piece is detachably attachable to one end of the wicking portion ("trigger portion") distal to the wicking sensor, Wherein the device further includes one or more of the following:

i) means for pushing the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion ("pressing means");

ii) means for pulling the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion ("pulling means"); And

iii) means for creating a magnetic field coupling of two or more components within the trigger housing and the indicator housing;

Thus, the non-electronic trigger signal is passed to the indicator to enable notification of a leak.

Preferably, the indicator housing comprises at least one magnetic field sensing/indicating sheet or film. More preferably, the indicator housing comprises a magnetic field sensing magnetic fluid.

Preferably, the non-electronic indicator housing includes at least one rectangular magnet that receives a non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing and then generates a notification of a leak. Preferably, the non-electronic indicator housing comprises a plurality of cylindrical magnets that are attracted to similar cylindrical magnets within the trigger housing so that the non-electronic indicator housing and the trigger housing can be properly aligned in use. Preferably, the non-magnetic indicator housing comprises four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, wherein two are front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets, and two are rear cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets. , Wherein the trigger housing also comprises four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, wherein two are front cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets and two are rear cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets, wherein the rear The cylindrical trigger housing locating magnet is of a polar orientation opposite to the front cylindrical indicator housing locating magnet to ensure that the indicator housing can only be positioned in one orientation with respect to the trigger housing.

Preferably, the non-magnetic indicator housing comprises four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, wherein two are front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets and two are rear cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets, Here, the non-electronic indicator housing is also movable from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection) upon receipt of the trigger signal from the trigger housing, and thereafter, an indicator magnet for generating a notification of a leak. Wherein the two front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets have the same polarity and orientation as the indicator magnet, so that the indicator magnet is held in place by the two front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets until moisture is detected and triggered. (Cannot be physically pulled to the triggered position).

Preferably, the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in the channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is one end of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable to, wherein the trigger end piece includes a front facing magnet and an upward facing trigger housing coupling magnet, wherein the channel of the trigger housing includes a fixed magnet attracted to the front facing magnet, wherein the indicator housing is When receiving the trigger signal from the trigger housing, it is movable from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection) and thereafter comprises an indicator magnet for generating a leak notification, wherein the upwardly facing The trigger housing coupling magnet is intentionally positioned and pulled substantially rearward from the indicator magnet, so that when the indicator housing is accurately positioned and adhered to the building membrane, just above the trigger housing, the indicator magnet and the upwardly facing trigger housing coupling magnet When the pull between is significant and there is a trigger of moisture detection, the front facing magnet is slingshot toward the fixed magnet, and the upward facing trigger housing coupling magnet engages with the indicator magnet to help overcome friction.

Preferably, the building membrane is a loop membrane. Preferably, the wicking sensor is moisture permeable and the wicking portion is not moisture permeable. Advantageously, the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises at least one magnetic pop pin, part or other component for providing an alarm within the non-electronic indicator housing. More preferably, the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises at least one magnetic pop-up pin, part or other component for providing an alarm within the non-electronic indicator housing, the pin, part or other component being dark, colored , A free-resistant liquid selected from the group comprising white and opaque. More preferably, the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises a cylinder tube within a non-electronic indicator housing that is responsive to movement (pull or depressed) under the influence of a non-electric trigger signal.

Preferably, the device of the present invention further comprises, in the trigger housing, means for generating a magnetic field that is pulled against a second same polarity magnet that moves upward and provides an alarm that the indicator housing is accurately centered over the trigger housing. Includes. Preferably, the means for generating the notification of leakage comprises an opposite polarity magnet (top magnet in the indicator housing and bottom magnet in the trigger housing), which acts in conjunction with lowering or raising the top magnet to generate a visual alarm of moisture. .

The present invention provides a method for detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane comprising:

a) Detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;

b) Wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to the wicking portion

c) Resulting in a material change in at least one portion of the wicking portion as a result of the moisture, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion;

d) Generating a detectable signal within the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor;

Wherein the trigger portion is suitable to be placed under the building membrane and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, and the indicator portion is suitable to be placed over the building membrane.

Preferably, within the method, the wicking sensor is moisture permeable and the wicking portion is not moisture permeable. Preferably, within the method, the step of triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion comprises two or more magnets (under the building membrane) that are differently separated until there is a material change in at least one portion of the wicking sensor. It is achieved by bonding of one on one and one on top of the building membrane. Preferably, within the method, the magnetic field coupling is two or more magnets (building membranes) that are differently separated until there is a material change in at least one portion of the wicking sensor that moves the at least one magnet relative to the other magnet. It is achieved by a combination of one below and one above the building membrane), which movement includes horizontal and vertical movement, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotating, or any combination of the above. do. Preferably, within the method, material changes include but are not limited to separation, destruction, dissolution of the part, stretching, contracting, swelling, rising, vertical or horizontal descending or diagonal movement, pulling, pushing, or any combination thereof. Without limitation, any physical destruction of the wicking portion.

The present invention provides a method for detecting and indicating moisture leakage without the need to puncture or damage a building membrane comprising:

a) Detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;

b) Wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to one or more wicking portions;

c) As a result of the moisture, causing a material change in one wicking portion in the trigger end piece, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion in the trigger end piece;

d) Generating a detectable signal within the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor;

Wherein the trigger portion in the trigger end piece is suitable to be disposed under the building membrane, and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, and the indicator portion is suitable to be disposed above the building membrane.

Preferably, within the method, the step of triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion is accomplished by any means ("pull means") pulling the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion. Preferably, within the method, the step of triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion is accomplished by any means (“pressing means”) that pushes the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion. . Preferably, within the method, the pulling means is any biasing means selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, and springs and other materials capable of producing a pulling force. Preferably, within the method, the pressing means is any deflecting material selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs, and expanding materials and other materials capable of producing a pressing force. More preferably, within the method, the pressing means is any expandable material selected from the group consisting of compressed rubber or plastic foam and other compressed materials and materials capable of producing a pressing force.

Preferably, within the apparatus and method of the present invention, the magnet is of a shape selected from the group consisting of round, rectangular, cylindrical, and square, but other shapes are contemplated for use and the invention as a whole should not be limited in these means. .

Preferably, within the apparatus and method of the present invention, a bayonet sensor is provided that is shortened in length and inserted into a hole drilled or cut out by the user.

Advantageously, the device of the present invention further comprises a wireless/Wi-Fi/data signal transmitter for conveying notification of leakage/moisture. Preferably, the device further comprises means for delivering an alert via an internet gateway for viewing (by the user) in one or more of a mobile application, a web platform or a data store (e.g., cloud/private server/public server). Do.

III Alternative Examples

In addition to the key aspects of the present invention, it should be understood that a number of device and method variations are available and selectable.

Different designs of various wicking materials, covering and indicator materials

1. Moisture wicking material: Alternatively, the moisture wicking material or material can be made of an organic or inorganic material, but preferably an inorganic material that will not rot. Such materials may be, for example, polyvinyl alcohol, fiberglass, polyester, polypropylene, or other synthetic or inorganic materials or composite designs.

2. Alternative allowing a different shape for covering the capillary tube: Alternatively, the wicking portion 10D may be provided with any other possible shape, which is preferably flat, circular, square, rectangular, octagonal or hexagonal in shape.

3. Alternative Moisture Wicking Configuration Length: Alternatively, each of the wicking portions/sensors 10D or 10E can be configured to a desired length to be trimmed in length by the end user.

4. Consisting of additional tapes: Consisting of additional tapes: Alternatively, an adhesive tape can be added to the bottom of the wicking portion 10D to adhere the capillary tube to the loop component.

5. Composed of reinforcing material: Alternatively, a reinforcing material is added (and adhered to 10E) inside the wicking portion 10D to aid in the moisture wicking portion that maintains its shape. The material may be aluminum, carbon fiber, glass fiber, flame retardant, or non-flammable, or a self-extinguishing material such as plastic, or other material.

Installation and details near the upper protrusion of the other roof

1.The present invention relates to roof pipe jacks or stacks, intake or exhaust roof vents, roof anchors, multi flash boxes, electric retro boxes, roof breather vents, assembled curbs, steel curbs for HVAC units, hatches, walls, railings, control joints Can be used near, skylight, pan curb, spun copper drain, aluminum drain, cast iron drain, drain sump, drain and other roof top equipment. Alternatively, the loop sensor can be installed away from the RTU in the "field" area of the loop. In addition, the roof sensor can be effectively installed on the roof surface and on the side of the roof wall and roof railing.

Allows design for flame, mold and fungus and moisture protection

1. Alternatively, a flame retardant material or substance is added to the wicking material.

2. Alternatively, add flame retardant material or material to the unit casing housing.

3. Alternatively, a mold resistant material or substance is added to the wicking material.

4. Alternatively, a fungus resistant material or substance is added to the wicking material.

5. Alternatively, add substances or chemicals to prevent moisture from freezing.

As shown in Fig. 4, the indicator window 51 is a U.V. It is preferably designed to protect against radiation, oxidation, wind erosion, non-erosion, thermal damage and contact damage. The channel holding magnet can be sealed with an upper gasket and filled with, for example, argon or krypton gas to prevent condensation in the channel during cold weather.

Alternative design, components of the trigger housing and how to use them:

1. As an alternative, the magnets 2 and 35 can be replaced with a band, wire or spring of an elastic type pulling the trigger end piece 34, and with a wicking material 10A in response to a material change in the wicking portion. .

2. As another alternative, the magnets 2 and 35 are wicking in response to material changes in the wicking portion and with a spring or inflation material (eg, compressed rubber or plastic foam) that presses the trigger end piece 34. It can be replaced with material 10A.

3. As a further alternative, a combination of the foregoing, ie means for applying pressure to push or pull the trigger end piece and/or the wicking portion toward the end of the channel/slot in the trigger housing is provided, whereby a magnet or ferromagnetic It activates a magnetic coupling in the trigger housing that moves the material within the indicator unit.

While the forms of apparatus, methods and systems described herein constitute preferred embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to these precise forms. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the various embodiments described above may be combined to provide additional embodiments. Aspects of the apparatus, methods and systems (including certain components thereof) may, if necessary, be modified to best use the concepts of the invention. These aspects are fully considered to be within the scope of the present invention as claimed. For example, the various methods described above may omit some operations, may include other operations, and/or may execute operations in a different order than presented in the illustrated embodiment. Preferred aspects of the device are optional and may not go to the heart of the invention.

These and other changes may be made to the apparatus, system and method in light of the above description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed as limiting the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but in all possible implementations, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are granted. It should be construed as including an example. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited by this disclosure, but instead its scope should be determined entirely by the following claims.

1 Trigger housing (also known as trigger base housing)
2 fixed magnets
4 ports/opening
6-9 Permanent cylinder magnet on trigger housing
Base housing recess with 9A permanent cylinder magnet (9) placed
Wicking sensor spot attached to 10A water soluble adhesive
10B wicking part
10C wicking part
10D wicking part (the part closest to the wicking sensor)
10E wicking sensor
10F water soluble adhesive
11 Chamber slot/channel with trigger housing
17 base cover
18 indicator housing
18A (cover (28) mates with base of indicator housing (18)) edge (18A)
19-22 permanent cylinder magnet on indicator housing
Indicator housing recess where 19A cylinder magnet (19) is placed
Recess to hold 23A glass (58)
25 indicator magnet (divided into 25A and 25B)
27 Surface of the indicator housing
28 Indicator housing cover
33 Top surface of cover (28)
34 trigger end piece
Section of trigger end piece (34) with 34A plastic removed
35 front facing magnet
36 Top-facing magnets (also known as tray-coupled magnets)
37 The upper surface of the trigger end piece, i.e. the upper flat surface
38 concrete deck
39 Insulation
40 loop membrane
42 Complete Moisture Detection System
43A removable terminal bar
43B base sensor housing section
44 Normal area of moisture wicking area
46 Typical area of trigger system
50 bar covering
51 Indicator window
53A/53B End Bar Fastening Nut
Hexagonal hole in the lower surface of the 53C/53D trigger housing
55 cover board
57 reinforcing material
58 glass
80 (in 2-channel trigger housing) left channel
81 (in 2-channel trigger housing) right channel
82 (in 2-channel indicator housing) left channel
83 (in 2-channel indicator housing) right channel

Claims (45)

A device for use in detecting and indicating moisture leakage, which does not require perforating or damaging a building membrane, comprising: i) a wicking sensor ii) a wicking portion longitudinally or otherwise coupled to the wicking sensor; iii) a non-electric trigger housing for placement under a building membrane in use, the non-electric trigger housing adapted to receive a signal from the wicking portion in response to moisture from the wicking sensor; And iv) in use, a non-electronic indicator housing for placement over the building membrane and in alignment with the trigger housing, suitable for receiving a non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing and thereafter generating a notification of a leak. An apparatus comprising a non-electronic indicator housing. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-electronic trigger signal is a magnetic field coupling of at least one of two or more components within the trigger housing and the indicator housing. The method of claim 1, wherein notification is achieved by coupling two or more magnets (at least one below the building membrane and at least one above the building membrane) that are otherwise separated until the non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing is present. Device. The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that is settable when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Device, detachably attachable to one end. The method of claim 1, wherein the wicking portion is physically changeable in response to moisture from the wicking sensor ("material change"), and thus a first magnetic field in the trigger housing and a second magnetic field in the indicator housing are combined. Forming a means for activating the trigger portion to activate the trigger portion, after which the engagement activates a moisture alarm within the indicator housing. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the trigger end piece comprises a front facing magnet attracted but spaced apart from a magnet fixed at the distal end of the channel during device setup and an upward facing magnet attracted to the magnet in the indicator housing. The method of claim 5, wherein the material change includes, but is not limited to, separation, destruction, dissolution of the part, stretching, contracting, swelling, ascending, vertically or horizontally descending or diagonally moving, pulling, pushing, or any combination thereof. Does not, is any physical destruction of the wicking portion. The method of claim 2, wherein magnetic field coupling is achieved by coupling of two or more magnets (one below the building membrane and one above the building membrane) that are otherwise separated until there is a material change in at least one portion of the wicking sensor. , Device. The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is one of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable to the distal end, and the device comprises a front facing magnet and an upward facing magnet on the trigger end piece, a magnet fixed at the distal end of the channel of the trigger base housing, and at least one indicator housing magnet, wherein the magnet Is capable of moving, including horizontal and vertical movement, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotating, or any combination of the above. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is disposed on a trigger end piece attracted but spaced apart from a magnet fixed at the distal end of the channel in the trigger housing and an upwardly opposed magnet attracted by the magnet in the indicator housing during device setup. It is made possible by a material change in at least one part of the wicking sensor, which moves the forward facing magnet, where the magnet moves horizontally and vertically, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotating. Or a mobile device comprising any combination of the above. The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is one of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. A means for pulling the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion to deliver the non-electronic trigger signal to the indicator to enable notification of a leak (“pull means”) The device further comprising. The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that can be set when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is one of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable to the distal end, wherein the device means for pushing the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion to deliver the non-electronic trigger signal to the indicator to enable notification of a leak (“pressing means”) The device further comprising. 12. The device of claim 11, wherein the pulling means is any biasing means selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs and other materials capable of producing a pulling force. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the pressing means is any deflection material selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs, inflation materials and other materials capable of producing a pressing force. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein the pressing means is any expandable material selected from the group consisting of compressed rubber, plastic foam and other compressed materials and materials capable of producing a pressing force. The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that is settable when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable to one end, wherein the device:
i) means for pushing the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion ("pressing means");
ii) means for pulling the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion ("pulling means"); And
iii) means for generating magnetic field coupling of two or more components within the trigger housing and the indicator housing; further comprising at least one of,
To pass the non-electronic trigger signal to the indicator to enable notification of a leak. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indicator housing comprises at least one magnetic field sensing/indicating sheet or film. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the indicator housing comprises a magnetic field sensing magnetic fluid. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-electronic indicator housing comprises at least one rectangular magnet that receives the non-electronic trigger signal from the trigger housing and then generates a notification of a leak. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the non-electronic indicator housing comprises a plurality of cylindrical magnets attracted to a similar cylindrical magnet within the trigger housing such that the non-electronic indicator housing and the trigger housing can be properly aligned in use. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-magnetic indicator housing includes four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, wherein two are front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets, and two are rear cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets. Magnets, wherein the trigger housing also includes four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, where two are front cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets and two are rear cylindrical trigger housing positioning magnets, wherein Wherein the rear cylindrical trigger housing locating magnet is of an opposite polarity orientation to the front cylindrical indicator housing locating magnet to ensure that the indicator housing can be positioned in only one orientation relative to the trigger housing. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-magnetic indicator housing comprises four cylindrical positioning magnets, one at each corner, wherein two are front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets and two rear cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets. Wherein the non-electronic indicator housing is also movable from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection) upon receipt of the trigger signal from the trigger housing and thereafter an indicator for generating a notification of a leak A magnet, wherein the two front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets have the same polarity and orientation as the indicator magnet so that the indicator magnet is in place by the two front cylindrical indicator housing positioning magnets until moisture is detected and triggered. A device that is retained (which cannot be physically pulled into the triggered position). The method of claim 1, wherein the trigger housing includes a trigger end piece that is settable when used in a channel of the trigger housing, and the trigger end piece is of the wicking portion (the “trigger portion”) distal to the wicking sensor. Removably attachable to one end, wherein the trigger end piece includes a front facing magnet and an upward facing trigger housing coupling magnet, wherein the channel of the trigger housing includes a fixed magnet attracted to the front facing magnet, wherein the indicator The housing includes an indicator magnet for being movable from an untriggered position (no moisture detection) to a triggered position (moisture detection) upon receipt of the trigger signal from the trigger housing and thereafter generating a notification of a leak, wherein the The upward facing trigger housing coupling magnet is intentionally positioned and pulled substantially rearward from the indicator magnet, so that when the indicator housing is accurately positioned and adhered to the building membrane, just above the trigger housing, the indicator magnet and the upward facing trigger housing When the pull between the coupling magnets is significant and there is a trigger of moisture detection, the front facing magnet is slingshot toward the fixed magnet, and the upward facing trigger housing coupling magnet engages with the indicator magnet to overcome friction. Helping device. The device of claim 1, wherein the building membrane is a roof membrane. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wicking sensor is moisture permeable and the wicking portion is not moisture permeable. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises at least one magnetic pop pin, part, or other component for providing an alarm within the non-electronic indicator housing. The method of claim 1, wherein the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises at least one magnetic pop-up pin, part or other component for providing an alarm within the non-electronic indicator housing, the pin, part or other component An apparatus for displacing a free-resistant liquid selected from the group comprising dark, colored, white and opaque. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the means for generating a notification of a leak comprises a cylinder tube within the non-electronic indicator housing that is responsive to movement (pull or depressed) under the influence of the non-electronic trigger signal. The method of claim 1, further comprising means for generating a magnetic field that moves upward within the trigger housing and pushes up against a second same polarity magnet that provides an alarm that the indicator housing is accurately centered on the trigger housing. Device. The magnet of claim 1, wherein the means for generating a notification of a leak acts in conjunction with lowering or raising an upper magnet to generate a visual alarm of moisture (upper magnet in indicator housing and lower magnet in trigger housing). Containing, device. As a method to detect and mark moisture leaks that do not need to puncture or damage building membranes
a) detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;
b) wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to the wicking portion
c) as a result of the moisture, causing a material change in at least one portion of the wicking portion, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion;
d) generating a detectable signal in the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor; and
Wherein the trigger portion is adapted to be disposed below the building membrane and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, the indicator portion being adapted to be disposed above the building membrane. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein the wicking sensor is moisture permeable and the wicking portion is not moisture permeable. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion comprises two or more magnets (one under the building membrane and one under the building membrane) that are otherwise separated until there is a material change in at least one portion of the wicking sensor. Method, achieved by bonding of one) onto the membrane. 32. The method of claim 31, wherein magnetic field coupling comprises two or more magnets (one under the building membrane) that are differently separated until there is a material change in at least one portion of the wicking sensor that moves the at least one magnet relative to the other And a combination of one) on the building membrane, wherein the movement comprises horizontal and vertical movement, rolling, sliding, turning, tilting, toggling, flipping, raising or lowering, rotating, or any combination of the above. . The method of claim 31, wherein the material change includes, but is not limited to, separation, destruction, dissolution of the part, stretching, contracting, swelling, ascending, vertically or horizontally descending or diagonally moving, pulling, pushing, or any combination thereof. Does not, is any physical destruction of the wicking portion. As a method of detecting and indicating moisture leaks that do not need to puncture or damage building membranes,
a) detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;
b) wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to one or more wicking portions;
c) as a result of the moisture, causing a material change in one wicking portion in the trigger end piece, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion in the trigger end piece;
d) generating a detectable signal in the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture in the wicking sensor; and
Wherein the trigger portion within the trigger end piece is adapted to be disposed below the building membrane, and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, and the indicator portion being adapted to be disposed above the building membrane. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion is accomplished by any means (“pull means”) pulling the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion. 37. The method of claim 36, wherein triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion is accomplished by any means (“pressing means”) pushing the trigger end piece in response to a material change in the wicking portion. 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the pulling means is any biasing means selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, and springs and other materials capable of producing a pulling force. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the pressing means is any deflecting material selected from the group consisting of elastic bands, wires, springs, and expanding materials and other materials capable of producing a pressing force. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein the pressing means is any expandable material selected from the group consisting of compressed rubber or plastic foam and other compressed materials and materials capable of producing a pressing force. 11. The device according to any one of claims 3, 6, 8 and 10, wherein the magnet is of a shape selected from the group consisting of round, rectangular, cylindrical and square. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a wireless/Wi-Fi/data signal transmitter for delivering notifications. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising means for communicating the alert through an internet gateway for viewing in one or more of a mobile application, a web platform, or a data store. Network, mobile application, web platform, system and program products, including roof installers, inspectors, building owners, and building maintenance personnel to detect leaks by means that do not need to puncture or damage building membranes, including: But includes a unified forum for users, but not limited to this,
a) detecting moisture in a wicking sensor;
b) wicking moisture from the wicking sensor to the wicking portion
c) as a result of the moisture, causing a material change in at least one portion of the wicking portion, the change triggering engagement between the trigger portion and the indicator portion;
d) generating a detectable signal in the indicator portion in response to such engagement, the detectable signal being a notification of moisture at the wicking sensor;
Wherein the trigger portion is suitable to be placed under the building membrane and functionally engaged with the wicking portion and the wicking sensor, the indicator portion is suitable to be placed on the building membrane, and the signal allows the user to see and access the signal. Networks, mobile applications, web platforms, systems and programs to be delivered to the product, network, mobile applications, web platforms, systems and program products.

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